Editor, The Spotlight:
The Moreland Commission, which investigated public corruption, has issued its report and made many recommendations that would give NY state a more democratic government. One step is to have an independent and nonpartisan watchdog for oversight of the campaign finance system.
As recommended by the Moreland Commision, the League of Women Voters of Albany County urges lower contribution limits, elimination of loopholes, robust disclosure and a small donor match public financing system of elections.
The criteria for getting elected should not be how much money a candidate can raise, but how well he or she can represent the voters and foster the public good.
Our current campaign finance system negatively affects democratic engagement. We urge Governor Cuomo to lead the reform of the corrupt and dysfunctional practices in NYS.
Lois Griffin
President, League of Women
Voters of Albany Co.