Episode
6-18-26 - 11am - Transparency in Contribution and Expenditure Reporting
- Published
- Jun 18, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1795
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Summary
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in campaign finance and government transparency. The speaker takes a critical look at the Colorado Secretary of State's website, Tracer, which is supposed to provide transparent access to campaign finance data. However, the system is woefully outdated, with a user interface that's more like something from the Clinton administration than a modern technology platform. The speaker shares their own frustrating experience trying to navigate the system, which is supposed to be a one-stop-shop for campaign finance information. They highlight the numerous issues with the system, including its inability to be accessed during business hours on Wednesdays, its lack of updates since 2014, and its cumbersome design that makes it difficult for even the most determined users to find the information they need. The speaker also cites a report from the Center for Public Integrity, which graded Colorado's transparency portal a dismal D-minus. The speaker uses this as a case study to question the transparency of the Marks for Governor campaign, which has been accused of campaign finance irregularities. They point out that the campaign's financial reports are not audited for compliance, and that the system relies on an "honor system" rather than actual checks and balances. If you're interested in learning more about the issues with campaign finance transparency in Colorado and how it affects the state's elections, tune in to this episode to hear the speaker's in-depth analysis and discussion. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.