Money Out of Politics campaign turns in signatures for campaign funding initiative
Michiganders for Money Out of Politics submitted over 562,000 signatures to place a ballot initiative on Michigan’s November election, aiming to ban political contributions from regulated utilities like DTE Energy and Consumers Energy, as well as corporations with major government contracts such as Blue Cross Blue Shield. The group also seeks to close a loophole allowing dark money groups to bypass campaign ad restrictions by avoiding explicit language like 'vote for' or 'elect.'
Activists with Michiganders for Money Out of Politics turned in over 562,000 signatures on Wednesday to advance a ballot initiative aimed at reducing corporate influence in Michigan politics. The proposal targets regulated monopoly utilities like DTE Energy and Consumers Energy, as well as corporations with large government contracts such as Blue Cross Blue Shield, seeking to ban their political contributions. The initiative also addresses a loophole allowing dark money groups to bypass campaign ad restrictions by avoiding explicit language like 'vote for' or 'elect.' Organizers argue this loophole enables indirect support for or opposition to candidates while evading transparency rules. To qualify for the ballot, the group needed at least 356,958 valid signatures, equivalent to 8% of votes cast in Michigan’s 2022 governor’s race. The state must now verify the signatures and the petition’s validity before the measure appears on the November general election ballot. Michiganders for Money Out of Politics Co-Chair Sean McBrearty stated the effort aims to 'end the reign of billionaire corporations and monopoly utilities' in Michigan’s political process. The group claims these entities profit from government relationships while excluding public input. If approved, the initiative would mark a significant step toward campaign finance reform in Michigan, potentially reshaping how corporate funds influence elections. The state’s Bureau of Elections will review the signatures in the coming weeks.
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