Common Cause

Common Cause is a citizens’ organization that works for political and social reform in the United States. The group calls for reform of congressional procedures. It backed the successful effort to give 18-year-olds the right to vote in national elections and helped bring about the 1974 law that provides for federal financing of presidential campaigns. The law also sets limits on private contributions to presidential and congressional candidates, as well as on spending by presidential candidates who accept federal funds. The organization supports legislation that would limit spending by congressional candidates and favors limiting the influence of political action committees (PAC’s) and interest groups. Common Cause supports no political party.

The organization maintains that none of the major problems in the United States can be solved unless the government becomes more responsive to the needs and desires of the general public. Therefore, Common Cause works to make Congress more representative and more responsible, especially in the operation of its committee system.

Common Cause was founded in 1970 by John W. Gardner, who was secretary of health, education, and welfare from 1965 to 1968. The headquarters of Common Cause are located in Washington, D.C.