Van Hollen Files Amicus Brief Urging Supreme Court to Uphold Ban on Corporate Political Expenditures

Press Release

Van Hollen Files Amicus Brief Urging Supreme Court to Uphold Ban on Corporate Political Expenditures

Today, Congressman Chris Van Hollen issued the following statement on the amicus brief filed in the Supreme Court in the case of Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, urging the Supreme Court to uphold the ban on corporate political expenditures:

"Overturning the ban on corporate political expenditures would not just turn back 19 years of Supreme Court precedence, but almost 100 years of laws restricting corporate influence in elections. It would have a disastrous impact on our democracy, at a time when Americans already feel like special interests have too much sway over Washington. I have worked hard my entire career to fight for reform and ensure that all Americans - not just special interests - have access to our political system.

"As a Member of Congress, I have seen how critically important McCain-Feingold is, and with this brief I hope to provide unique perspective of someone who is both familiar with the effect of money on politics and legislation and deeply concerned about maintaining public trust in our democracy. In filing this brief, I am registering my strong objection to turning back the clock on controlling corporate influence in politics."

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