To the Editors:

Many Americans feel strongly about getting big and dark money out of politics. A recent survey by The Democracy Project found that 77 percent agreed that “the laws enacted by our national government these days mostly reflect what powerful special interests and their lobbyists want.” Only 17 percent chose the alternative statement: “The laws enacted by our national government these days mostly reflect what the people want.”

The American Promise Ohio group asked the two candidates for the U.S. House, Ohio District 4, to support the goal of a 28th Amendment to the U. S. Constitution to “1) secure fair, free elections by limiting the undue influence of money in politics; 2) protect the rights of all Americans to equal participation and representation, rather than overrepresentation of donors and special interests; and 3) protect the unalienable liberty of people rather than new privileges for the largest corporations, unions, and special interests.”

Candidate Janet Garrett agreed to promote a 28th Amendment as a member of Congress from Ohio District 4 when she is elected. She said, “Big money and special interests corrupt decision-making in Washington. I will proudly support initiatives, including a Constitutional Amendment, that will get dark money out of our politics once and for all and give power back to the people.”

Incumbent Rep. Jim Jordan would not schedule a meeting to discuss this issue nor respond to phone calls and emails.

Across the country, 19 state legislatures and nearly 800 cities have passed 28th Amendment resolutions with cross-partisan support. There currently are several U.S. House resolutions for a 28th Amendment. Our volunteers and allies are working toward electing officials, both Republican and Democrat, who will support these resolutions.

Ask your candidates, “Do you support a 28th Amendment so that people, not money, govern?” And then be a voter on Tuesday, Nov. 6.

Ellen Greene Bush
American Promise Ohio