Congress is finally listening to the growing demands for reform from the American people. That H.R. 1 will be a sweeping set of pro-democracy reforms is an encouraging sign that the new Congress has its priorities in line with the will of the people. On Election Day, voters from coast-to-coast sent a clear message that we are ready for bold, comprehensive democracy reforms. Tired of the status quo, Americans passed nearly two dozen ballot initiatives across the nation ranging from redistricting reforms, ethics, same day and automatic voter registration to citizen-funded elections measures to ensure that the people have a voice in their democracy. These passed in red states, blue states, and purple states alike with strong support from Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.

The new commitment to reform in the incoming Congress is reflected in the record response rate to Common Cause’s Our Democracy 2018 campaign in which we asked then-candidates to go on the record with their positions on 18 key democracy reforms. The response was heartening as it reflects an incoming Congress prepared to follow the will of the people.

We look forward to continuing to work out the details of some of the proposals in the bill to arrive at solutions that are the best solutions for all Americans.

To view a report on the ballot reform measures passed around the country this cycle, click here.

To view Common Cause’s “Our Democracy 2018” responses from congressional candidates, click here.