Editor,

Mixed in the array of initiatives on this year’s ballot is one that deserves the attention and support of Island County voters. Six years ago the U.S. Supreme Court, in its Citizen United decision, formally equated money with political speech, and in so doing, unleashed a torrent of campaign finance contributions that were unprecedented in our nation’s history.

Such contributions have ensured that those entities, whether they be wealthy individuals or corporations with the most money to spend on elections, have the greatest influence not only on the outcome of those elections, but on the subsequent conduct of those candidates who are the recipients of their largesse.

Initiative 735 asks our Congressional delegation to support what would be the 28th amendment to our U. S. Constitution. This amendment would affirm that the money spent on political campaigns does not equate to free speech under the 1st Amendment and would restore the power of Congress and the States to regulate money in our elections.

The American people are aware of the corrupting influence of big money spent on our elections and the ways in which it is undermining our democracy. To date, 17 states have passed resolutions/ballot measures asking Congress for that specific amendment. In Washington State, 17 jurisdictions have passed resolutions against Citizens United, including four right here in Island County: Oak Harbor City Council, Coupeville Town Council, Langley City Council and the Island County Board of Commissioners.

Passing laws to overturn Citizens United is not enough. Only a constitutional amendment can protect us from the judicial whims of the Supreme Court. We must vote for I-735 if we are to restore the voice of ‘we the people.’

MARSHALL F. GOLDBERG

Oak Harbor