As a 71-year-old grandmother, I want my grandchildren to inherit a democracy in which every citizen\u2019s voice matters \u2014 not one in which elections are shaped by wealthy donors and special interests, especially foreign-influenced corporations.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s why I was encouraged to see the Pennsylvania House pass state Rep. Joe Webster\u2019s bill, House Bill 497, to prohibit political spending by foreign-influenced corporations. It passed by an overwhelming 146-56 bipartisan vote in June, proving that protecting our elections is not a Democratic or Republican issue \u2014 it\u2019s an American one.<\/p>\n
Too many people have lost faith that government works for ordinary citizens. When corporations with significant foreign ownership spend money to influence our elections, people question whose interests are being represented.<\/p>\n
HB 497 takes an important step toward restoring public trust by ensuring Pennsylvania elections are decided by Pennsylvanians, without affecting locally owned businesses or family companies, which are not foreign-influenced corporations.<\/p>\n
I\u2019m especially grateful to Lancaster County state Reps. Steve Mentzer, Nikki Rivera and Izzy Smith-Wade-El for voting yes. Mentzer showed that protecting our democracy is more important than partisan politics.<\/p>\n
Now it\u2019s the state Senate\u2019s turn. I hope that state Sens. Scott Martin and James Malone will join the bipartisan House majority and vote yes on HB 497. Saying \u201cyes\u201d to this bill is simply saying that foreign-influenced corporate money has no place in Pennsylvania elections. Our democracy belongs to \u201cWe the people.\u201d<\/p>\n
Ask your state senator to vote \u201cyes\u201d by using this Action Network form (bit.ly\/House497) online.<\/p>\n
Nancy Morgan<\/p>\n
West Lampeter Township<\/p>\n
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