Building on our current public elections program, every Albuquerque resident would receive $25.00 worth of “Democracy Dollars” in the mail and could donate that money to local candidates of their choice who qualify for a publicly financed campaign and who agree not to accept private contributions. 

THE BENEFITS

  • The system would require no additional city funding and would enable working- and middle-class candidates to compete against wealthy or well-connected candidates. 
  • A wide range of Albuquerqueans without big pocketbooks would be given a new way of participating in campaigns and having our voices heard. 
  • Candidates could focus on the issues important to the communities they serve instead of dialing for dollars from big donors and special interests.
  • The Democracy Dollars system would enable a more diverse candidate pool the opportunity to compete in our elections and have a chance to serve in office.
  • Editor's Note: Democracy Dollars will also allow a greater pool of Albuquerque residents to financially support local candidates - voters who might otherwise not have the wherewithal to contribute to local candidate campaigns