About Us
Fighting for the democracy we deserve.
Common Cause puts its state and national policy expertise, massive network of grassroots supporters, and nonpartisan approach into action to strengthen our democracy against the challenges it faces today. We work at every level of government on priorities that impact each of our lives—like defending the right to vote, limiting big money’s influence on our elections, holding public officials accountable, and more. Our efforts are driven by our national headquarters in D.C. and our more than 25 state offices, led by teams of on-the-ground specialists who know how to win impactful reforms that fortify our democracy.
When We the People come together, we can make a real and lasting difference. Taking action with Common Cause means joining a nationwide movement in pursuit of a democracy that gives all of us a voice in the decisions that shape our future.
Our Mission Statement
Common Cause is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization dedicated to upholding the core values of American democracy. We work to create open, honest, and accountable government that serves the public interest; promote equal rights, opportunity, and representation for all; and empower all people to make their voices heard in the political process.
Discover the Common Cause Education Fund
Common Cause works...
In the Legislature
In the Courts
On the Ground
And Beyond...
Our History
John Gardner, a Republican who served in President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Cabinet, founded Common Cause as “a people’s lobby” in 1970. Today, we are 1.5 million members and supporters strong and have active offices in over 25 states. Our long and rich history includes milestones like lowering the national voting age to 18, enacting a ban on “soft money” in political campaigns, and helping to create the Office of Congressional Ethics.
Our Commitment to Equity
At Common Cause, we know that racial equity and inclusion must be at the core of what we strive to be, as must equity and inclusion for all individuals across identities and differences (ethnicity, gender, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religious beliefs, tribe, caste, age, class, thinking and communication styles, etc.). These values are essential to the successful execution of our mission: creating a truly representative and inclusive government.
