RELEASE: House Members Start ‘NO PAC’ Money Caucus

Washington, DC – Rep. Ro Khanna (CA-17) announced the formation of a new congressional caucus dedicated to limiting the influence of money in politics. The "NO PAC Caucus," of which Rep. Khanna chairs, also seeks to prohibit contributions to members of Congress from Political Action Committees, or PACs. Other members of The NO PAC Caucus are Reps. Beto O'Rourke (TX-16) and Jared Polis (CO-2).

"As one of just seven members of the House of Representatives who does not accept lobbyist or PAC contributions, this caucus will be an important forum to highlight solutions to reduce the role of money in our political system," said Rep. Khanna.

Earlier this year, Rep. Khanna introduced The NO PAC Act along with Rep. O'Rourke. The bill would prohibit members of Congress and those running for a U.S. House or Senate seat from accepting contributions from a political action committee, other than that of the candidate's. It would also prohibit the establishment of leadership PACs.

In the 2015-2016 election cycle, PACs contributed more than $474 million to congressional candidates according to Federal Election Commission data provided by OpenSecrets.org. OpenSecrets.org also reported that PAC money accounted for 35 percent of campaign funds for House Democrats, 39 percent for House Republicans, 15 percent for Senate Democrats, and 27 percent for Senate Republicans last election cycle.

About the Office

Congressman Khanna represents the 17th District of California, which covers communities in Silicon Valley. Visit his website at khanna.house.gov. Follow him on Facebook and Twitter @RepRoKhanna.

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