LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – A bipartisan coalition is preparing to launch a ballot drive aimed at closing what supporters call a “pay-to-play” loophole in Michigan’s campaign finance system.
The initiative, known as Money Out of Politics, would prohibit campaign contributions from corporations that hold contracts with the state or operate as regulated utilities. Supporters say the change would help reduce the influence of special interests in Lansing and make elected officials more accountable to voters rather than state interests.
Christy McGillivray, executive director of Voters Not Politicians, said the measure is designed to withstand legal challenges under the 2010 Citizens United Supreme Court decision, pointing to similar laws already in place in 15 states.
“Eighty-six percent of Michiganders agree on this, and there aren’t many issues that unite people like that anymore,” McGillivray said. “We’re living in a very divided time, but people across the political spectrum are furious about corruption, and they want to see change. That’s exactly the kind of thing we should be investing our energy in.”
James Johnson Jr., Political Director with Detroit Action, said it’s not about silencing the voice of a business in the free market, but keeping corporations with no competition from having a louder voice than the people of MIchigan.
The coalition, which includes Voters Not Politicians and Detroit Action, argues that current laws allow corporations to contribute to the same lawmakers who regulate them, a practice Johnson compares to legal bribery. He said that the arrangement can directly impact household budgets through utility rate hikes and other costs.
“Are you deciding between paying your power bill and getting your medication? Are you being priced out of affordable living? This is something we can fix with one vote, and it’s why this initiative matters.” Johnson said. “It’s about making sure the right voices are being heard, the voice of the people, not corporations that already have megaphones and the money to amplify them even more.”
Organizers expect the state Board of Canvassers to review the petition language on August 22. If approved, they will begin collecting more than 300,000 signatures to place the proposal on the November 2026 ballot.
According to the coalition, more than 80 percent of Michigan voters, across party lines, support restricting corporate political donations.
