George Miller: “I believe there is no more important issue for this Congress to address in the waning hours than the need to reform our…”

“I believe there is no more important issue for this Congress to address in the waning hours than the need to reform our corrupt campaign finance laws. As my colleagues will recall, many of us have called upon Speaker Gingrich to schedule a vote this month on legislation to ban the large, unregulated financial contributions to political parties known as soft money. These contributions of $25,000, $100,000, and even $1 million from a single individual representing some particular special interest have helped to ruin our electoral and legislative process. Despite our repeated requests for a vote and despite the Speaker's own pledge of support, there has been no vote scheduled on a soft money ban or any other campaign finance reform. My colleagues and our Speaker should be aware that we are prepared to use all our means at our disposal to force a vote this month. No more business as usual, Mr. Speaker. The famous avoidance game on this issue is no longer acceptable. Our ability to honestly represent our constituents depends on our success and reforming the campaign finance laws. Already there is talk of adjourning the Congress as soon as possible to avoid addressing this issue. Mr. Speaker, that is unacceptable. We will not accept such a cowardice position and the protectionism of special interests.”