It is unclear whether so-called "clean elections" can work in a system so influenced by money. States such as Maine, Connecticut, and Arizona are taking the "big money" out of the election campaigns by providing public funding for candidates who agree to take no special-interest contributions and follow strict spending limits. This system encourages candidates to spend more time with voters than with big campaign donors. It also provides opportunities for citizens who aren't wealthy or well-connected to contemplate running for office. Still, most candidates find it lucrative to opt out of clean campaigning, and stick with the traditional systems of fundraising.

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EXTERNAL LINKS

Public Campaign: States/Localities with Clean Elections

Study by U.S. Government Accounting Office: Early Experience of Two States that Offer Full Public Funding of Political Campaigns

Common Cause: Breaking Free with Fair Elections