We all know that money is corrosive to our politics and keeps us from passing laws we desperately need. All too often, we’ve seen elected officials start with the best of intentions, only to become so desperate to keep ahold of power that they sacrifice their values. They take money from the wrong people, hide their beliefs, and stop fighting for change.

That’s why I’ve signed a pledge to refuse donations from corporations, firearms manufacturers, opioid manufacturers, the fossil fuel industry, and the PACs and lobbyists who represent them.

I’m also committed to doing all I can to pass public financing of our elections here in Rhode Island to decrease the influence of donors. If we ever want elections that are about ideas, rather than just which candidate has the most money or connections, then we need to demand more of our leaders.

Laufton Ascencao

Bristol

Mr. Ascencao is a Democratic candidate for R.I. House of Representatives District 68.