Many candidates in Arizona choose to run a traditionally funded campaign - I could do that too. I would raise a great deal more money in a traditionally funded campaign.
However, the Arizona voters decided they wanted a clean elections program in 1998 and have continued to support the program since.
I feel it is important for representatives of the people of this state to abide by the recorded will of the people. If Arizonans want the clean elections campaign program, I feel compelled to limit my campaign to only those funds provided by the State.
Sincerely,
Al Melvin
* Clean candidates won 7 out of 9 statewide offices: Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, Treasurer, 2 Corporation Commissioners, and Mine Inspector.
* 36% of Arizona's legislature is made up of members elected clean.
* Voter turnout increased by more than 20% over 1998 in districts where clean candidates ran.
* There was a 64% increase in candidates running for statewide office over 1998.
* The number of minority candidates tripled over 1998.
The best source of information on Campaign Finances in Arizona is the Secretary of State's website.