Tiffany Muller, president of the national campaign finance reform group End Citizens United, released the following statement after the passage of Seattle Proposition 1, which renews the city’s groundbreaking Democracy Voucher Program:

“We were proud to support the campaign to renew Seattle’s Democracy Voucher Program because it has become a national example of how to break wealthy donors’ grip on politics and put power back where it belongs—with the people,” said Tiffany Muller, president of End Citizens United. “Seattle’s pioneering effort shows that reclaiming influence from big money and returning it to everyday citizens makes our democracy fairer, more resilient, and better reflective of all voices. The victory of Prop 1 is a testament to the strength of grassroots reform and a major step toward a more equitable, inclusive, and representative future for all Seattleites.”

The Democracy Voucher Program—the first of its kind in the nation—is a small donor campaign financing system that gives Seattle residents four $25 vouchers to contribute to the local candidates of their choice. Since its launch in 2017, more than 100,000 residents have used their vouchers, driving a more than 500% increase in overall donor participation. Notably, most voucher users were first time campaign contributors, with especially strong participation among lower income residents and communities of color.

With the passage of Prop 1, Seattle is ensuring the future of a proven, groundbreaking program that is reshaping democracy and empowering everyday voters.