House Democrats on Friday unveiled more details of their first bill for the new Congress, a good-government package that would limit big money in politics, make it easier for citizens to vote and require presidents to disclose their tax returns.
The legislation, called H.R. 1, sets the tone for Democrats as they take the majority in January, though prospects for passage are murky. Republicans will still be in charge of the Senate and the White House, and it's unlikely they'll sign off on some of the proposals, which are still in the works.
Still, Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi voiced optimism about prospects for the legislation.
"Our best friend in this debate is the public," Pelosi said. "We believe that it will have great support and that message won't get lost on the Senate or on the president of the United States."
The bill would create automatic national voter registration while expanding access to early and online registration. It would increase federal support for state voter systems, including paper ballots to prevent fraud.
Here you go, GOP. Time to prove you are for democracy, and not the oligarchy.
Good move by the Dems.