Congressman Fred Upton has concerns about a Democratic election reform plan set for a House vote this week. Among other things, House Resolution 1 would establish automatic voter registration, set up a non-partisan redistricting commission, and impose stricter campaign finance rules. Upton tells WSJM News another thing it would do is allow some matching funds for congressional campaigns. He thinks that would create a mess.
“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Upton said. “It’s not just the Republican or Democratic party. You’re going to have maybe four or five or six — maybe even more than that — political parties are going to have access to the Treasury. You’re going to see campaigns likely get more expensive.”
Upton tells us there is limited federal funding for presidential campaigns, but this would greatly expand federal campaign funding. He says HR1 will get a vote on Friday, and although it will likely pass, the issue is a non-starter in the Senate. Upton doesn’t think Senate leadership will even allow it a vote.
