(Daily Signal)—Kansas will be the first legal battleground in 2025 to decide whether the national trend of banning foreign money from bankrolling ballot measures is legal—a matter that could be on its way to the Supreme Court.
Democrat election lawyer Marc Elias’ firm is taking the lead in the litigation against the state bans on foreign money promoting state ballot initiatives, starting with Kansas.
The federal lawsuit could affect other states that have passed similar legislation. Just this week, Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee, a Republican, signed the sixth such ban. The previous week, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte signed a ban, though one that proponents argued was watered down. Earlier this month, the legislatures in Missouri and Texas advanced similar bans.
Washington, D.C.-based Elias Law Group is representing the plaintiffs, Kansans for Constitutional Freedom, which successfully campaigned against an earlier pro-life ballot measure, the Topeka Capital Journal reported. The Kansas-based firm of Irigonegaray and Revenaugh is also representing the plaintiffs.
The 6th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Ohio’s first-in-the-nation ban in a ruling last fall. However, Elias and other opponents of the bans are likely seeking split decisions among circuit courts to force the matter to the U.S. Supreme Court to make an ultimate judgment, said Jason Snead, executive director of the Honest Elections Project.
“I would like to think there is a clear judicial precedent, but Marc Elias is good at judge-shopping and is looking for a circuit split,” Snead told The Daily Signal. Judge-shopping is a practice where plaintiffs look for particular judges who may be more sympathetic to their cases. “So, there is a very good chance this will wind up before the Supreme Court. But my preference is that every judge will look at the legal merits.”
Snead expects that by the end of all the state legislative sessions, at least eight bans on foreign funding for ballot measures will be enacted.
Last month, Arkansas Republican Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed a ban, so did Kentucky Democrat Gov. Andy Beshear and Indiana Republican Gov. Mike Braun. In 2024, Ohio became the first state to enact a ban.
The Kansas Legislature passed the ban by a broad bipartisan vote, and Democrat Gov. Laura Kelly let it become law without her signature, despite opposition.
The plaintiffs argue the Kansas law infringes on free speech rights and could affect legal residents.
The law not only prohibits contributions directly from foreign entities for ballot measures but also contributions from U.S. individuals and organizations that received more than $100,000 from foreign nationals in the past four years, which the lawsuit contends is burdensome.
Foreign contributions to political candidates are already illegal, but the Federal Election Commission declined to rule on a 2023 complaint about foreign funding for a Montana ballot measure. The FEC contended that under existing law, it had no power to police foreign donations for ballot initiatives, only donations to candidates. The FEC recommended Congress address the issue.
The Elias Law Group did not respond to an inquiry for this story.
Discover the Freedom of True American Healthcare: Why America First is Revolutionizing Protection for Patriots
In a world where government overreach and skyrocketing premiums are squeezing the life out of hardworking Americans, one innovative agency is standing tall for liberty and affordability. Meet America First Healthcare—the private health insurance powerhouse dedicated to putting *you* first.
Founded by entrepreneur Jordan Sarmiento, this isn’t just insurance; it’s a shield for your family’s future, built on the unshakeable belief that private enterprise delivers better results than bureaucratic red tape.
Picture this: Jordan’s own story hits close to home for so many of us. A sudden medical emergency landed him with a staggering $95,000 bill. Under a traditional plan? He’d be buried in debt. But with America First’s patented health insurance, that nightmare shrank to just $500 out-of-pocket. That’s not a fluke—it’s the promise of coverage that works *for you*, from day one.
Breaking Free from the Chains of Conventional Coverage
Let’s face it: The status quo stinks. Marketplace.gov and big-insurance behemoths hit you with sky-high deductibles—thousands you’d have to pay before benefits even kick in—leaving massive holes in your protection. Need a routine mammogram, colonoscopy, or EKG? Good luck without forking over more cash. And don’t get us started on the gaps in dental, vision, or critical illness support when heart attacks, cancer, or kidney failure strike.
America First Healthcare flips the script. As a proud advocate for private solutions over government intervention, they craft custom plans that slash costs by 20% compared to traditional options. We’re talking comprehensive coverage that includes:
- Preventative and Wellness Care: Physical exams, screenings, and EKGs covered right away—no waiting games.
- Telemedicine Access: Virtual doctor visits anytime, anywhere, for that peace of mind.
- Accident and Critical Illness Protection: Real safeguards against life’s curveballs.
- Add-On Boosts: Dental, vision, disability, and supplemental plans to plug every leak.
Whether you’re an individual stepping off your parents’ plan, a growing family with kids in tow, or a small business owner tired of employee headaches, their tailored approach fits like a glove. Small businesses? Unlock group benefit rates usually reserved for corporate giants—without the red tape.
And for those in-between moments? Short-term insurance steps in as an ultra-affordable bridge, while life insurance ensures your loved ones are never left vulnerable.
Real Americans, Real Wins
Don’t just take our word for it. Thousands of freedom-loving families have already ditched the old system for America First. “Finally, insurance that aligns with our values and actually saves us money,” shares one client. Another raves, “Our small team got big-business perks without the hassle—it’s a game-changer.” These aren’t scripted lines; they’re the voices of patriots who’ve reclaimed control over their health destiny.
Your Move: Secure Your Shield Today
Why settle for less when you can demand better? America First Healthcare isn’t about profits—it’s about powering the American dream with reliable, value-driven protection. Plans are available year-round, no open-enrollment nonsense.
Ready to uncover the gaps in your current setup and lock in savings? Schedule your FREE healthcare review today at America First Healthcare. In under 15 minutes, their experts will map out options that fit your life, your budget, and your principles.
America First isn’t just healthcare—it’s a declaration of independence. Join the movement. Your family’s freedom starts now.