In this episode of For Our Freedom, Jeff Clements sits down with Pennsylvania State Senator David Argall to discuss how campaign finance has changed over decades of public service — from volunteer-driven local races to today’s high-cost, consultant-heavy political landscape.

They explore the growing influence of outside money in state elections, how national spending is reshaping local campaigns, and why lawmakers across the country are advancing a constitutional amendment to restore the authority of states and Congress to set the rules for money in politics.

As Pennsylvania considers its role in this national effort, Sen. Argall reflects on democracy, federalism, and what it would take to build a healthier political system ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.

$33 million in outside spending. Anonymous attack ads. Misinformation shaping local elections.

Oklahoma State Senator Brent Howard joins For Our Freedom to explain how dark money is impacting his state, and why Oklahoma became the 24th state to push for a constitutional amendment on election spending.

From rural hospitals to statewide races, this episode breaks down what’s happening on the ground, and why a growing number of states are working to restore transparency and voter control.

In this episode of For Our Freedom, American Promise CEO and host Jeff Clements speaks with Ohio State Representative Tex Fischer about federalism, election law, and who should decide the rules for money in elections.

Rep. Fischer discusses Ohio’s recent efforts to prohibit foreign spending in state elections and the legal challenges those laws now face in federal court. He also explains why he is sponsoring a resolution in the Ohio legislature calling on Congress to advance the For Our Freedom Constitutional Amendment—restoring the authority of states and Congress to decide the rules for money in elections.

Together, they explore the role of states as “laboratories of democracy,” the growing tension between state authority and federal court rulings, and what stronger transparency and accountability in elections could look like in the years ahead.