Mainers deserve a government of, by and for the people, not one bought and paid for by special interests and the wealthy. That’s why Question 1 on November’s ballot is so important. 

Question 1 will limit the influence of big money in our elections by making common sense reforms to Maine’s campaign finance laws. 

The reforms include strengthening transparency and disclosure laws by requiring special interest groups to disclosure their top donors on all political ads. That way Mainers know who is trying to influence their vote and where politicians get their money. 

It will also increase fines and penalties for those who break our election laws so we can ensure politicians are accountable to us, the people. 

Lastly, it will strengthen Maine’s landmark Clean Elections system, which establishes strict spending and campaign limits so that candidates aren’t beholden to special interests and big money donors. 

 The amount of money in our election system is out of control and over the years, the power of special interests has grown in our political system. Now is the time for Maine voters to take back control of our elections by passing Question 1 on Nov. 3. 

For more information about the referendum visit accountableelections.org.

Dianne Stevenson lives in Lincolnville.