Ability Quote by Bernie Sanders
“As a result of the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, American democracy is being undermined by the ability of the Koch brothers and other billionaire families. These wealthy contributors can literally buy politicians and elections by spending hundreds of millions of dollars in support of the candidates of their choice. We need to overturn Citizens United and move toward public funding of elections so that all candidates can run for office without being beholden to the wealthy and powerful.”
About This Quote
Large private money in politics skews representation; public financing could level the playing field for candidates.
In simple terms: Money dominates politics; public funding can rebalance.
Key Takeaway
Campaign finance reform promotes democratic equality.
Themes
politics
money
democracy
reform
Mood
urgent
determined
Type
political
activist
When to use this quote
- election campaigns
- lobbying efforts
- grassroots movements
Key Concepts
institutional power
economic inequality
Practical Applications
- Implement matching‑grant public financing systems
Questions to Reflect On
- How can transparency complement public financing?
- What safeguards prevent new forms of elite influence?
A Different Perspective
Public funding alone may not eliminate influence of wealthy donors through indirect channels.
![“As the longest serving Independent in the history of the United States Congress, as somebody who came into office by defeating an incumbent Democratic mayor in Burlington, Vermont, I know something about third party politics. And I respect Jill [Stein].” quote by Bernie Sanders](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/94c/bernie-sanders-233_congress_as-the-longest-serving-independent-in-th_10777.jpg)
