Now eight months past the election, issues related to ballot access and campaign finance reform are still top of mind for so many across our country. And given this month’s Supreme Court rulings that will further empower dark money political groups and threaten ballot access for vulnerable and traditionally disenfranchised minority communities, the need for federal action is clear.

Despite what some would have you believe, there is still reason for optimism about the passage of a strong package of election and campaign finance reforms in Congress. While the For the People Act was temporarily stalled by a filibuster, moderate senators have confirmed that they are willing to negotiate, compromise, and continue legislating on these issues. As leaders like Sen. Angus King are working behind the scenes on the compromise with Manchin, Schumer, and others, we need them to continue to push for inclusion of the key dark money provisions of the legislation.

After all, the For the People Act was wildly popular across the aisle. Particularly the anticorruption measures, dark money ban, and smart policies that make it easier for communities to vote. Those core provisions, which address the most pressing challenges to our democracy and enjoy widespread support, must remain in the final bill.

We know that Sen. King will remain at the negotiating table during the critical few weeks ahead, and hope that Sen. Susan Collins will lend her valuable perspective during the continued discussions.

Leslie Lacroix

West Gardiner