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.
Recent elections have revealed glaring faults in election administration systems across the country. Oversight of election authorities must be strengthened to ensure they are nonpartisan in their administration, while promoting full participation in our electoral process.
The Illinois Senate proposed requiring candidates for judicial seats to have 10 to 15 years experience as a licensed lawyer, according to the Springfield Journal-Register.Senate Joint Resolution Constitutional Amendment 120 was the only…
According to Gavel Grab, Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has plunged into an intense debate and endorsed an end to local and state elections of judges. At a question-and-answer session Thursday before the National Association of Women Judges, Justice…
According to ElectionlineWeekly, Dan Tokaji, associate professor of law at Ohio State University, argues election administration reform efforts should shift from the rules governing elections to the institutions that govern them…
With the Supreme Court’s decision on the Citizens United case, large corporations gained a victory to make their voices dominate federal elections. …
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
Pension overhaul treats lawmakers, other state workers differently
Many reactions follow Arizona ruling
As some states close highway rest stops, others see roadside revenue
Brennan Center Democracy Program
Citizen Advocacy Center Government Monitoring
George Mason University United States Elections Project