Democracy Dollars

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What can be done about big money in politics?  One solution could be Seattle’s successful Democracy Voucher program, a public campaign financing model.  

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In 2015, Seattle voters supported an initiative to launch a Democracy Voucher program, a first-of-its-kind small donor campaign financing system that gives every eligible Seattle resident four $25 vouchers to contribute to the local candidates of their choice.

 

On May 21, 2026, we hosted Spencer Olson, former Communications Leader for Seattle’s Honest Elections Seattle campaign at Lunch with League. He described why the Democracy Voucher program initiative was developed by the community and what it has accomplished since its inception. He also shared lessons learned for other cities considering a similar program. 

 

This in person meeting was recorded:  WATCH the PROGRAM HERE!  View slides and a Fact Sheet.

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See our Information Sheet with good information about public financing of campaigns.