16-940. Findings and declarations.



(Caution: 1998 Prop. 105 applies)



A. The people of Arizona declare our intent to create a clean elections system that
will improve the integrity of Arizona state government by diminishing the influence of
special-interest money, will encourage citizen participation in the political process,
and will promote freedom of speech under the U.S. and Arizona Constitutions. Campaigns
will become more issue-oriented and less negative because there will be no need to
challenge the sources of campaign money.


B. The people of Arizona find that our current election-financing system:


1. Allows Arizona elected officials to accept large campaign contributions from
private interests over which they have governmental jurisdiction;


2. Gives incumbents an unhealthy advantage over challengers;


3. Hinders communication to voters by many qualified candidates;


4. Effectively suppresses the voices and influence of the vast majority of Arizona
citizens in favor of a small number of wealthy special interests;


5. Undermines public confidence in the integrity of public officials;


6. Costs average taxpayers millions of dollars in the form of subsidies and special
privileges for campaign contributors;


7. Drives up the cost of running for state office, discouraging otherwise qualified
candidates who lack personal wealth or access to special-interest funding; and


8. Requires that elected officials spend too much of their time raising funds
rather than representing the public.