Former Tennessee Congressman John Tanner is joining an effort to rein in “dark money” in politics.
The Democratic lawmaker says he’s joining a group of about 75 former members of Congress that will try to change the rules for funding federal campaigns. Tanner says super PACs funded by anonymous donors are unraveling the fabric of American democracy.
“A man gives you $20 million, $25 million, it’s human nature … to be appreciative to the point that it’s unhealthy in your public management of your affairs,” Tanner says.
Tanner laments the 2010 Citizens United ruling, in which the U.S. Supreme Court struck down spending limits on independent groups. But Tanner also blames the federal tax code for not always requiring super PAC donors to identify themselves.
The group doesn’t have a name yet and will get off the ground in September. It will be led by former Indiana Congressman Tim Roemer, a Democrat, and former Maryland Congresswoman Connie Morella, a Republican.
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