FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 21, 2005

CONTACT: Brendan Daly/Jennifer Crider 202-226-7616

Pelosi Slams Republican Plan to Increase Private Money and Influence in Presidential Elections

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the Republicans’ plan

Washington, D.C. – House Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi released the following statement today on the Republicans’ plan to end the voluntary $3 check off on taxpayer returns to publicly finance the presidential election system:

“It is outrageous that Republicans are so committed to the culture of corruption and cronyism in Washington that they want to increase the amount of private money and influence in presidential elections. 

“President Bush and Republicans in Congress never miss an opportunity to reward their wealthy cronies, and the American people are paying the price with higher prices at the pump, more expensive prescription drugs, and a skyrocketing deficit.

“Rather than strengthen their ties with wealthy cronies, Republican should join Democrats’ support of strengthening the presidential public financing system.  Together, America can do better.”

“ Democrats are united in presenting a New Direction for America, one that will make our nation as strong as its people, one that brings opportunity, security, and prosperity to all Americans. ”

Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi