DISCLOSE Act falls one vote short

Senate Democrats failed for the second time to pass legislation that would offer more details to campaign spending by corporations and unions.

The DISCLOSE Act fell one Democrat short of the 60 needed to avoid a Republican filibuster with a 59-39 vote, according to The Washington Post.

“Republicans continue to block the Senate from even debating common-sense oversight to bring transparency to our campaign finance laws,” Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid said in a statement. “The outcome of today’s vote shows the difference between Democrats who believe voters should be in control of our elections and Republicans who want to allow big corporations to buy their outcomes behind closed doors.”

A House committee approved the Fair Elections Now Act that would allow members of Congress to focus on their constituents and not the constant fundraising trail. According to The Huffington Post, candidates would collect donations of $100 from their state and would be matched four-to-one with Fair Election funds. The legislation now can move to the House floor for a vote.

To take action to urge Congress to act before adjourning for the year, go here.