Measure Q (Campaign finance reform as law)

By Thomas J. "Tom" Malson

Vote NO on Measure Q.

The basis for campaign finance reform is to limit spending, promote a `level playing field' and make an elected office accessible to everyone. I do not see how this measure would do any of that. It does not limit spending, just how you report it, it does not promote a level playing field, incumbents can still amass large campaign war chests and therefore elected office would still not be accessible to everyone.

What I do favor is true campaign finance reform such as the proposed model ordinance developed by Common Cause and the League of Women Voters for the City of Sacramento. We should look at this model, which is written specifically to ensure a level playing field and to reduce the influence of large contributors with specific interests.