[Page H1469]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                ELECTION REFORM FOR THE AMERICAN PEOPLE

  (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in 
opposition of H.R. 1, legislation that was introduced by the Democratic 
leadership that they claim is for the people.
  Let me be clear: There are some voting and election reforms where I 
believe Republicans and Democrats can find common ground; however, H.R. 
1 abuses taxpayer dollars, criminalizes free speech, and encourages 
voting irregularities. I cannot support it in its current form.
  One of the most egregious provisions in H.R. 1 creates a 6-to-1 
government match to small donor campaign contributions up to $200. This 
means for every $200 that a political candidate receives, the Federal 
Government, with your tax dollars, is giving $1,200 to a politician's 
campaign.
  Since when does the Federal Government become a congressional 
candidate's ATM?
  This is only one example of how H.R. 1 legislation is not designed to 
serve the people but to serve the Democratic majority.
  This House should work in a real bipartisan fashion to create 
election reform that the American people deserve, and I am willing and 
ready whenever my colleagues on the other side of the aisle are willing 
and ready to talk.

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