Washington, D.C. - Following today's Senate Rules Committee hearing on S.1, the For the People Act, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:
“The For the People Act finally got a historic first hearing in the Senate today. This is a comprehensive measure to build a stronger, more inclusive democracy. It addresses critical issues such as the problem of big money in politics and the importance of shoring up voting rights. And predictably, its enemies trotted out every discredited argument ever launched against a voting rights bill -- including the original Voting Rights Act of 1965. But our country has come a long way since 1965, and we're not going back. S1, the For the People Act, offers an opportunity to expand participation in our democracy for so many Americans who have been shut out of full participation, including Black and brown voters and working people. The Senate needs to take it up and pass it as soon as possible, and if the filibuster stands in the way, it must end the filibuster in order to do so."
About People For the American Way
People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.