MADISON, WI — This week’s decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in NRSC vs Federal Election Commission destroyed another safeguard against unlimited money in American elections, making it even easier for wealthy donors and special interests to wield outsized influence over our government. Wisconsin organizations are condemning the ruling and reaffirming their commitment to building a political system where every voice, not just the wealthiest, is heard.
The Court’s decision bypassed Congress and eliminated federal restrictions on unlimited transfers between political parties and candidates, further eroding campaign finance protections that curb corruption and maintain public trust in our elections. As safeguards against unlimited political spending continue to be challenged by anti-democratic actors/forces, ordinary voters risk being pushed even further to the sidelines while wealthy interests gain even greater influence over our government and policy agendas.
To see the harmful effects that await the rest of our nation, look no further than Wisconsin’s state elections. Since the elimination of state contribution limits in 2015, wealthy donors and outside interests have poured immense sums into our elections.
The most recent Wisconsin Supreme Court races demonstrated how party committees transferred millions to officially nonpartisan judicial campaigns, amplifying the influence of a handful of ultrawealthy donors while diminishing public confidence in the independence of our courts.
This decision makes meaningful reform even more urgent. We remain committed to pushing commonsense policies that amplify the voices of everyday voters. That includes stronger disclosure requirements, reasonable contribution limits where permitted, small-dollar public financing programs, and other reforms that help ensure our democracy belongs to the people, not the highest bidder.
Signed organizations,
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign
Voters First Wisconsin
League of Women Voters of Wisconsin, Inc
Wisconsin United To Amend
