Banks Quote by Elizabeth Warren
“If the big banks expect to buy influence when they give money to favored think tanks, then the public has a right to know. If the big banks don't expect to buy influence and are merely making charitable contributions, then their shareholders have a right to know. Either way, there's no excuse for keeping these payments secret.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Senate Hearing on Financial Transparency, 2013
Banks should disclose whether donations aim to buy influence or are genuine charity, ensuring public awareness.
In simple terms: Banks must be transparent about donations.
Demand disclosure of political donations.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Lobbying disclosures
- nonprofit audits
- shareholder reports
- media investigations
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms ensure true transparency?
- How can public oversight be strengthened?
Complex legal definitions of “influence” may hinder enforcement.