Casten Joins House Democrats in Passing Historic Voting Rights, Anti-Corruption and Ethics Reforms
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Rep. Sean Casten (IL-06) tonight joined House Democrats in passing H.R. 1, the For the People Act, a sweeping anti-corruption package to clean up Washington, protect and expand voting rights, restore integrity, and put the needs and priorities of the American people ahead of special interests.
"In Illinois and across the country, the overwhelming majority of Americans agree that it's past time we get dark money out of politics, protect the right to vote, and ensure the integrity of our elections," said Congressman Casten. "Today, I voted to pass the most ambitious anti-corruption and voting reforms in a generation because everyone should have an equal voice in our democracy—no matter what you look like, where you come from, or how much money you have."
"Everything my constituents care about—climate legislation that does what's scientifically necessary, affordable health care, childcare and paid family leave, racial justice — is only achievable in a democracy that is responsive to the people, not to the powerful and well connected," continued Casten. "H.R. 1 will protect voting rights and civil rights, ensure the integrity of our elections, hold elected officials accountable, and end the era of big, secret, special-interest money in our politics. At a moment when the stakes for our democracy couldn't possibly be higher, this historic reform effort will put power back to the American people, and put us on path toward a more equitable, just and prosperous future."
Key provisions of H.R. 1, the For the People Act, include:
• Expanding automatic voter registration and same day registration.
• Strengthening vote by mail, early voting and ballot access.
• Combating voter intimidation and voter suppression.
• Protecting elections from foreign interference
• Fixing partisan gerrymandering.
• Promoting digital ad transparency.
• Forcing disclosure of dark money.
• Reining in lobbyist influence.
• Enforcing ethics and conflict of interest rules for all government officials.
• Empowering small donors with matching funds paid for by lawbreakers, not taxpayers.
See here for more information about H.R. 1.