George Santos, and the less-headline-grabbing corruption in Congress.

Our campaign finance system allows for legalized corruption.

Katie Porter

Dec 2

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Yesterday’s vote to expel George Santos has me thinking about something I think about quite often, frankly: corruption in Congress.

After the Ethics Committee investigation, it was clear that Santos had not only lied to get elected, but had used running for office as his own get-rich-quick scheme. I won’t go into his every lie and fraudulent move, but if you’d like to learn more about the botox spending and fake animal charity, this New York Times piece offers a deep dive.

But look, corruption in Congress doesn't start and end with George Santos.

Our campaign finance system allows for legalized corruption, where multinational companies and powerful industries write the rules and dictate policy.

It’s a broken system. Here are a few important policy steps we should take to reduce the influence of big money in politics:

Ban taking donations from registered lobbyists
Ban corporate PAC money
Overturn Citizens United and get dark money out of politics

While I’ll keep pushing for these reforms, it’s an uphill climb to enact them. But right now, every single Member of Congress has a choice to make: how they fund their own campaign.

That’s why I don’t take a dime from corporate PACs, federal lobbyists, Big Oil, Big Pharma, or Big Bank CEOs. I’m one of just eleven Members of Congress who rejects federal lobbyist money. This pledge should be the norm, not an exception.

You can help reduce the role of big money in politics. Vote for candidates who are accountable to their constituents, not just their biggest donors. If you’re voting in a Democratic primary at any level, check out where the candidates stand on corporate money—there’s often a lot of daylight between candidates in our party.

And if you’re a campaign donor, consider supporting candidates who have never taken corporate PAC money. They’re the ones who will really appreciate your donation.

I do have an ask for my own campaign: $10 or $15 really does go a long way. I’m SO grateful for every grassroots supporter, because I literally would not have made it to Congress without the teachers, service workers, and retired folks who make a sacrifice every time they donate.

Our grassroots supporters are who inspire me to keep fighting against corporate special interests. I am so appreciative and honored to earn the support of people like you.

Thanks for reading,

Katie