About us
Common Cause New York and our members are fighting for the democracy we deserve.
We put our proven policy expertise, our network of grassroots supporters, and our nonpartisan approach into action to strengthen our democracy against the challenges it faces today. We work across New York on priorities that impact each of our lives—like defending the right to vote, making our government more accountable, promoting transparency, and more.
When We the People come together, we can make a real and lasting difference. Taking action with Common Cause New York means joining a powerful movement in pursuit of a democracy that gives all New Yorkers a voice in the decisions that shape our future.
Our Impact
Common Cause New York knows how to win reforms that reach every corner of our state. We lead the most important fights for our democracy, no matter where they take place. Learn more about some of our key victories—and how you can play a meaningful role in the fight for an open, honest, and accountable government.
Our Team
The staff at Common Cause New York work day in and day out in defense of transparency, fairness, and the right to be heard in our democracy. Our expertise and creativity drive all of the crucial work we do for New Yorkers. Get to know us, get connected—and reach out with questions about Common Cause New York’s latest efforts.
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Common Cause works...
In the Legislature
In the Courts
On the Ground
And Beyond...
Our History
John Gardner, a Republican who served in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Cabinet, founded Common Cause as “a people’s lobby” in 1970. Today, we are 1.5 million members and supporters strong and have active offices in over 25 states. Our long and rich history includes milestones like lowering the national voting age to 18, enacting a ban on “soft money” in political campaigns, and helping to create the Office of Congressional Ethics.
Our Commitment to Equity
At Common Cause, we know that racial equity and inclusion must be at the core of what we strive to be, as must equity and inclusion for all individuals across identities and differences (ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religious beliefs, tribe, caste, age, class, thinking and communication styles, etc.). These values are essential to the successful execution of our mission: creating a truly representative and inclusive government.
