The FEC opens its ears

When the Federal Election Commission holds hearings on changing campaign finance rules, usually the only witnesses testifying are political law insiders.  In the FEC’s so-called “public” hearing on the significant Citizens United case, only a handful of people testified. 

Last week, the FEC opened its doors for the first ever to a truly public hearing at the agency. All members of the public, including academics, political attorneys, and anyone else who wanted to speak, could share their views on how the FEC can improve the campaign finance system.  Yet when the public actually testified, some criticized the hearing as not accomplishing anything.

Members of Congress frequently face the public in town halls in their home districts.  Often, when controversial issues arise, those meetings can become contentious.  Those town halls are part of the rough and tumble of politics, but they serve a very important function for elected officials.  They help keep elected officials accountable to their constituents, and they improve communication between the public and the government. 

As an appointed body, the Commission does not typically face the general public in the same way. But having public hearings is also extremely important for the FEC.  A federal agency funded by American taxpayers, the FEC exists to serve the public.  The work we do is fundamental to democracy and impacts all citizens.  We cannot fulfill this duty without hearing from all Americans. 

There is a direct link between civic participation and confidence in government, and having a public dialogue strengthens trust in government.  At this week’s hearing, where normally only staff and a few lawyers are in attendance, the room was packed, our webcast neared capacity, and a wide array of citizens were able to say their piece about campaign finance.  For the first time, we heard compelling testimony from both seasoned political law experts and from private citizens—some of whom travelled for hours to share their views with us in Washington.  

To rebuild confidence in government, we must encourage participation, not belittle it.  I am proud of the success of the FEC’s historic public hearing and will continue to encourage participation and openness in my tenure as chair. 

Ravel is chairwoman of the Federal Election Commission.