We are an alliance of political reformers and policy researchers committed to improving democratic institutions in Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin. We advocate for a political system that will create a healthy economy, good jobs, access to health care and quality schools.
77% of Illinoisans say they only trust the state government “some of the time” or “almost never.”
Go to the Midwestern Attitudes Poll »
Majorities of Illinois residents believe it is “worth getting money out of politics” and reject the idea that corruption will always be present in state government.
Go to the Midwestern Attitudes Poll »
80% of Illinois residents are “extremely interested” in an organization working to create “a more honest, accountable, and responsive government.”
A newly-established civic organization will give voters more and better information about candidates for judgeships. The Judicial Performance Commission of Cook County, composed of seventeen distinguished lawyers, civic leaders, and academics, is now compiling detailed evaluations of judges who are…
The Newseum and First Amendment Center launched the “
A survey released by the People for…
The Chicago Appleseed Fund for Justice is a nationally connected social impact research and advocacy organization that works to achieve fundamental, systemic reform by addressing policies and practices that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. We focus on social justice and government effectiveness issues ranging from fair criminal justice systems to equal access in financial institutions.
Founded in 1968, MALDEF is the nation’s leading non-profit Latino legal organization. Often described as the “law firm of the Latino community,” MALDEF promotes equality and justice through litigation, advocacy, public policy, and community education in the areas of employment, immigrants’ rights, voting rights, education, and language rights.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy.
Illinois PIRG takes on powerful interests on behalf of Illinois’s citizens, working to win concrete results for our health and our well-being. With a strong network of researchers, advocates, organizers and students across the state, we stand up to powerful special interests on issues to stop identity theft, fight political corruption, provide safe and affordable prescription drugs, and strengthen voting rights.
Common Cause has been the “people’s lobby” since 1970. With nearly 400,000 members from every state in the union, Common Cause works for open, honest and accountable government and increased civic engagement. In Congress, state legislatures, town halls, and courtrooms around the country, Common Cause represents the unified voice of the people against special interests and the corrupting influence of money.
Founded in 1923 by a group of citizens concerned about the growing influence of the Capone mob, the Better Government Association (BGA) is an independent, non-partisan government watchdog group committed to fighting waste, corruption and inefficiency in government.
The Illinois Campaign for Political Reform is a non-partisan public interest group that conducts research and advocates reforms to promote public participation in government, address the role of money in politics and encourage integrity, accountability, and transparency in government.
Census and Redistricting - 2009-2010
Midwest a hotspot for census, redistricting efforts Participation crucial to full and…
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Public Financing for Federal Campaigns - 2009
Midwest reform groups urge President Obama to support federal public financing legislation
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Midwest Open Government Project - 2009
New study finds five Midwestern states have dim sunshine laws Clouded…
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A Citizen’s Guide to Redistricting - 2008
New guide brings redistricting out into the open
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IL: Blago a bumbler or a schemer?
IL: Illinois racing board lets fairgoers bet on ponies
IL: Blagojevich trial -- Defense lawyer says ex-guv a talker, not criminal
Brennan Center Democracy Program
Citizen Advocacy Center Government Monitoring
George Mason University United States Elections Project
