CAMPAIGN FINANCE

Recurring lobbying scandals and recent corruption indictments highlight the need for comprehensive campaign finance reform at local, state and federal levels. The Foundation supports organizations working to educate the public and policymakers on how best to design and implement public financing mechanisms, using as examples the growing number of states, such as Maine, Arizona and Connecticut, that have already implemented effective and successful reforms.

Through a grant to the Proteus Fund, Inc., the Foundation supported the Piper Fund, a consortium of foundations and other donors working to promote comprehensive public financing of elections. Piper’s expert staff analyzes campaign finance policy in the various states, consults with its funders and experts in the field, and makes strategically focused grants. It is also able to identify and respond quickly to the best opportunities to support education around public financing reform at the state level.

Compton’s grant to the Rockwood Leadership Program provided scholarships for leaders in the campaign finance field to participate in Rockwood’s acclaimed Art of Leadership program. Participants reported that the training provided them with greater insight and stronger skills for increasing the impact of their organizations. It also created personal connections among these leaders, enhancing the opportunity for future collaboration and coordination in the campaign finance arena.

Download these highlights in PDF format.