Reform Government Secrecy

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The U.S. classifies far too many secrets, obstructing democracy.

Excessive government secrecy takes many forms, from agencies needlessly claiming documents are classified to ignoring information requests and destroying records — even when the documents show government fraud or illegal conduct. This hinders a free press, effective oversight, and the public’s ability to self govern.

We need to fight for systemic improvements, and we need the press to vigorously question the government every time it says something is classified.

Write a letter for the Ellsberg Act

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Edit this message so that it is unique to you: Dear Member of Congress, I am deeply troubled by the continued use of the Espionage Act of 1917 to threaten journalists and whistleblowers. This law has been used by administrations of both parties to criminalize those who expose government wrongdoing. We need transparency now more than ever. I am asking that you PLEASE SUPPORT the Daniel Ellsberg Press Freedom and Whistleblower Protection Act, recently introduced by Rep. Rashida Tlaib. This bill would fix the outdated Espionage Act in key ways, and place the right to know what the government is doing above self-serving secrecy. Without these fixes, government transparency will continue to diminish, making it harder for the public, and your office, to hold the executive branch accountable. I urge you to use your influence to safeguard the First Amendment by supporting the Ellsberg Act. Your efforts will have major implications for the public’s faith in our institutions. Thank you. URLs are not allowed in this message.

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