In a recent CBS poll, 72% of respondents said they believe American democracy is under threat. When asked to name the biggest threat to democracy, 86% listed the influence of money in politics. People from across the political spectrum are tired of the negativity and misinformation that is rampant in our pay-to-play political system.

In a rare show of bipartisanship, Democrats and Republicans in Augusta voted to ban foreign government spending in our state elections earlier this year. The bill passed the Legislature with broad, bipartisan support but was vetoed by Gov. Mills. In her veto letter, Mills stated that the bill would negatively impact press organizations who will have to prove if their political ad buyers are owned by foreign governments.

Large press organizations bring in millions of dollars in political ads every year. Voters have a right to know who’s footing the bill when huge sums of money are being spent to influence our elections. Democracy protects the freedom of press in this country, and I believe it is the responsibility of the press to protect democracy.

The bill to ban foreign government spending in our elections is now on the statewide ballot for the Nov. 7 election. I urge my fellow Mainers to vote yes on Question 2. Let’s work to restore American’s faith in democracy!

Chris Cayer

Eustis

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