Today, Amy Kennedy, mental health advocate and candidate for Congress in New Jersey’s 2nd district, released her plan to fight political corruption and special interest influence, and end the backroom deals that have become the hallmark of South Jersey’s broken electoral system.

“Our political system is broken and not delivering results for people. We can’t address the important issues we face– from climate change, to mental health and addiction, to the economy– until we have fair and transparent elections not driven by special interest money,” Kennedy said. “We need to elect people who are beholden to no one but the communities they serve.”

Kennedy announced her candidacy after Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-2) switched parties to become a Republican, pledging to offer his “undying support” to President Trump and the Republican party. A pro-Trump PAC has since offered $250,000 to support Van Drew’s re-election campaign.

“Amy’s bold and comprehensive plan strikes at the root of corruption in Washington,” said Tiffany Muller, president of End Citizens United. “Her plan would increase transparency and accountability in government and end the dominance of Big Money in politics. These reforms would ensure that our representatives work for the people, not special interests looking to pad their bottom lines.”

The main components of Kennedy’s plan include:

·       A pledge not to accept corporate PAC money

·       Support for H.R. 1, the “For The People Act,” which improves citizens’ access to the ballot box, closes lobbyist loopholes, and requires far greater disclosure for political contributions.

·       A plan to make our elections clean, free, and fair by ending partisan gerrymandering and making it easier for Americans to vote.

·       Passage of the Voting Rights Advancement Act and securing our elections by closing loopholes in our campaign finance laws that allow foreign powers to spend money to influence our democracy.

“My plan to fight political corruption starts with getting money out of politics and standing up to the special interests and big-money lobbyists that create barriers to addressing the issues our community cares about – from lowering drug prices and the cost of health insurance, to addressing gun violence and climate change,” said Kennedy. “New Jersey is ground zero for backroom deals, rigged elections and special interest influence.”

Kennedy noted how special interests have played a dangerous role in the election for Congress in the 2nd congressional district, and argued for the need for a strong reform plan.

“Just outside our district in Camden, party bosses like George Norcross use money and old school patronage to control local parties, unions and elected officials to ensure they do their bidding and grease the wheels to elect candidates who will support their financial and political agenda,” continued Kennedy.

“There is a big difference between talking election reform and having a plan with real teeth and taking real action. Last week my opponent put out a plan with no plan.  She said she supports election reform but made no mention of support for HR 1, the watershed legislation to address special interest money in politics. And she mocked candidates who pledge not to take corporate PAC Money.”

“In Congress, I promise to work for the families of South Jersey — not corporate lobbyists or political machines. Together, we can restore our moral compass and return political power where it belongs — with the people,” she continued.

Kennedy’s full plan can be viewed at amykennedyforcongress.com.