THE PROBLEM:
Our democracy is at a tipping point. It is veering toward authoritarianism, and the American Dream is slipping further out of reach. Why? Because for many Americans, democracy no longer feels like it’s working. People are struggling financially, working multiple jobs just to keep up. Anger is growing—and with it, a dangerous willingness to ignore the rule of law in pursuit of change.
WHAT’S REALLY HAPPENING:
From 1965 to 2023, wage inequality in the U.S. has skyrocketed. CEO pay has exploded while workers’ wages have stagnated. The cost of housing has soared, stretching families to the limit.
While frustration is often directed at the White House or corporate elites, the real culprit is systemic: the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision. This ruling unleashed unlimited outside spending in federal elections by corporations, unions, and wealthy donors.
The result? A Congress more beholden to billionaires and lobbyists than to voters. Candidates now need massive war chests funded by special interests, corporate PACs, and Super PACs. Since 2010, legislation has increasingly favored these donors—regardless of which party holds power. Republican or Democrat, the money flows to both.
Some suggest we just need better party leadership or structural reforms—but that won’t change the outcome. That’s like walking into a casino where the odds are rigged in favor of the house, and being told the management has been replaced by judges. The game is still fixed. The only way to restore power to the people is to remove the influence of money from Congress.
WHY CHANGE IS NECESSARY:
Removing big money from congressional elections will:
Restore Independent Representation: Lawmakers can vote based on their constituents’ needs—not donor demands or party pressure.
Enable Legislative Progress on widely supported issues, such as:
Protecting Medicare (82% support) and Social Security (87%)
Preserving Medicaid (84%)
Lowering drug costs (85%)
Defending free speech (66%)
Enacting common-sense gun laws (58%)
Advancing immigration reform (66%)
Securing a living wage ($15/hour backed by 65%)
Supporting unions (70%)
Ensuring fairer taxes (79% support higher taxes on the wealthy/corporations)
Other benefits include reducing political polarization, rooting out waste and fraud, curbing housing costs, rebuilding public trust, and safeguarding democracy itself.
THE SOLUTION:
Let’s be honest, Congress won’t fix itself. Calls for reform and term limits echo year after year, yet members' wealth rises while their approval ratings plummet.
We need a new approach—one that puts power directly in the hands of the American people.
We propose a bold, national campaign:
“Votem ALL Out”.
We ask every voter to sign a simple pledge:
If Congress does not pass legislation by September 2026 requiring publicly funded federal elections and banning all other campaign contributions, we will vote out every incumbent in the 2026 election—regardless of party or spending.
HOW PUBLICLY FUNDED ELECTIONS WOULD WORK:
Candidates gather a minimum number of signatures to qualify.
Once qualified, they receive equal government funding for their campaigns.
No private donations. No Super PACs. No dark money.
Campaign funds must only be used for campaign activities.
All unused funds are returned to the government.
State and local governments will host free public forums.
Media is encouraged to cover these events and inform voters.
This system levels the playing field—giving all Americans, regardless of wealth, a real chance to serve—and allows elected officials to govern instead of fundraising.
WHY THIS CAMPAIGN MATTERS:
Today, Americans are desperate for a way to express themselves and reclaim control. This campaign checks all the boxes:
Bi-partisan – Not Political: It unites, rather than divides.
Common Sense: Ends the domination of money in Congress and restores the people's voice.
Comprehensive: Protects core programs like Social Security and Medicare, reduces drug prices, strengthens free speech, and promotes fairness.
Simple to Understand: If Congress won’t act, “Votem ALL Out” in 2026.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
That’s why we’re asking for your voice and leadership to help introduce a bold, nonpartisan new vision to Americans: the “Votem ALL Out” campaign. This effort aims to end the influence of money in Congress so our representatives are free to act in the true interests of the people—not their biggest donors.
SUMMARY:
Rising inequality, economic instability, and misinformation have eroded faith in democracy. A growing number of Americans now consider dangerous alternatives like authoritarianism or socialism. But the root cause is clear: a Congress captured by money.
We must act boldly. We can’t wait for Congress to regulate itself. We must explain—clearly and truthfully—how money is distorting democracy and how we can fix it.
Like FDR’s fireside chats, this message must be educational, unifying, and hopeful.
We urge all Americans—citizens, community leaders, faith groups, student coalitions, and organizations—to join us. Let’s demand publicly funded elections by 2026. And if Congress fails, we will hold them accountable.
“Votem All Out”
Only Way - Restore Democracy and Reclaim American Dream in 2026
By William E. Bardwell, MBA, validatingtruth@gmail.com
Co-author: “Validating Truth in the Era of Misinformation and Fake News”
Thank you for taking your time to review our new vision on how to “Restore Democracy and Reclaim the American Dream on 2026.”
We would appreciate it if you would take a minute to complete the form below to let us know if the campaign is a good idea and offer your comments and suggestions.
THANK YOU!
For information about my book:
Validating Truth in the Era of Misinformation and Fake News