Use executive orders and agency rulemaking to expand transparency where Congress stalls (e.g., federal contractor political-spending disclosure; corporate di...
Use executive-branch levers to expand disclosure where Congress is stuck, starting with targeted, defensible actions like political-spending disclosure tied to federal contracting. This strategy builds the policy case, pushes decision-makers to initiate action, and protects the outcome through implementation and legal risk. The aim is practical transparency gains that also increase pressure for a broader national standard.
Why this works
- Can move without 60 Senate votes and can create immediate transparency incentives for large spenders.
Common Cause
AdvocacyBuilding a stronger democracy and accountable government
Mechanism
About LobbyingHow Common Cause uses funding
- Define the objective and the decision-maker (White House or agency) and specify what disclosure should look like.
- Build the case with legal and policy rationale and coordinate supportive letters, research, and expert input.
- Engage officials and staff, submit comments, and support the rulemaking or order process through key milestones.
- Build an administrative record that can withstand legal and political challenge.
- Track implementation and publish clear updates on what changed and what remains unfinished.
- Keep legislative work moving in parallel so executive gains aren’t the only path.
Milestones
Checkpoints and the expected timing for each step
- 1
Target disclosure ask defined
0–30 daysA specific, defensible disclosure policy is documented with a clear rationale.
- 2
Process initiated
1–2 monthsThe relevant office signals action (guidance, order, or rulemaking step) and a timeline.
- 3
Comment record built
During the processEvidence and comments support the disclosure requirement and limit loopholes.
- 4
Finalization + defense + implementation
After final actionThe action is issued, defended, and monitored through early implementation.