With funding approved in the state budget, a new program that matches small-dollar donations could allow candidates to run campaigns supported by everyday New Yorkers.
by David Moore, Sludge
Campaigns for state offices in New York have long relied on wealthy donors and special interests for their funding, but more will soon be powered by small-dollar donations from everyday New Yorkers.
In the New York state budget they passed this week, lawmakers included $39.5 million in funding for the state’s new public campaign financing program. The Brennan Center for Justice and other campaign finance reform advocates applauded the funding’s approval.

The program, which will be in effect starting in the 2024 elections, will offer candidates public matching funds for small contributions they raise, amplifying small-dollar donations of up to $250. Candidates for statewide office who choose to participate in the program would be eligible for public matching funds of $1,500 for a $250 contribution, while candidates for state legislative office would be eligible for a public match of up to $2,300 for a $250 contribution.
Recent Posts
Congress Finally Passed a Housing Bill. It Isn’t Enough.
August 25, 2026
Take Action Now The ROAD to Housing Act fails to address the commodification of housing driving our affordability crisis.By Layla Sayed and Logan…
Trump EPA Aims to Exempt Data Centers from Disclosing Air Pollution, Advocates Warn
August 25, 2026
Take Action Now Trump administration proposes new rule to dismantle requirement for datacenters to publicly report air pollutionTom Perkins, The…
An Important But Limited Win Against Data Centers in Pennsylvania
August 24, 2026
Take Action Now The order removes all AI data center proposals from the state’s fast-track permitting process and prohibits the use of nondisclosure…
‘Lawless Killing Spree at Sea Resumes’ as U.S. Announces Fresh Boat Bombings
August 24, 2026
Take Action Now With the latest two casualties, the Trump administration’s boat bombing spree has now claimed the lives of at least 223 people.…




