Breaking down New York’s new public campaign finance program

After Election Day, New York’s new public campaign finance program took effect for future election cycles.

In an effort to curb the influence of wealthy donors, smaller campaign contributions ranging between $5 to $250 can now be matched with public funding, similar to New York City’s existing campaign finance system.

Although the program hopes to empower everyday New Yorkers, including lowering barriers for those who are running for public office, some advocates have expressed concerns that Super PACs might undermine the system.

Joanna Zdanys, a senior counsel in the Brennan Center for Justice’s Democracy Program, joined Bobby Cuza on “Inside City Hall” Friday to break down the new system.

“It’s a tremendous response to the problem of big money in our state’s politics and really stands to make a difference in helping everyday New Yorkers have a greater say in the decisions that affect their lives,” she said.​