FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 27, 2023
New York, N.Y. (December 27, 2023) – Citizens Union releases the following statement from Executive Director Betsy Gotbaum following Governor Hochul’s veto of legislation (S7564/A7760) that would have dramatically weakened New York State’s public campaign finance program:
“Citizens Union applauds Governor Hochul for doing the right thing, and vetoing legislation that would have weakened New York State’s public campaign finance program. The bill the Governor has vetoed today ran counter to the goals of the landmark program. It would have matched $10,000 donations from deep-pocketed individuals with tax-payer dollars, instead of matching only small donations of up to $250.The bill also made other changes designed to protect incumbents, like making it harder for challengers to receive matching funds.”
“Over 160 candidates have signed up for the program, and it would have been unfair to dramatically change it so close to the 2024 elections. The Governor’s decision means the state’s public campaign finance program will continue to amplify the voices of everyday New Yorkers, and we encourage all campaigns to make use of its benefits. The Governor and Legislature should now ensure the program is adequately funded and properly implemented in the coming election cycle.”