Klobuchar and Merkley Statements on For the People Act Markup

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar, Chairwoman of the Committee on Rules and Administration with oversight over federal elections and campaign finance law, and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), sponsor of the For the People Act, issued the following statements on the markup of the legislation, which would strengthen democracy, make it easier to vote, and end the influence of secret money in U.S. politics.

“Today, we engaged in meaningful discussion to strengthen the For the People Act, legislation that will make sure our democracy works for the people, not for special interests, billionaires, and politicians. With respect and some earnest debate, a number of bipartisan amendments were adopted and the bill will soon advance out of committee to the floor. As Senator Schumer has said, failure is not an option. Just this year, 18 bills that roll back the right to vote have already been signed into law in states across the country – time is of the essence. We must get this bill passed,” said Klobuchar.

“Today, we debated the For the People Act, which is essential to protecting the freedom to vote and to stopping billionaires from buying elections,” said Merkley. “When it came down to the committee vote, Democrats stood for government of, by, and for the people, while Republicans defended the corrupt practices that blockade targeted communities from voting and destroy equal representation. Under Democratic leadership, the Senate will move forward toward a floor vote on this critical legislation to ensure that the freedom to vote is protected across our nation.”

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