Resolution asking Congress to amend the Constitution on campaign spending fails after tie vote

Elections, Finance and Government Operations Committee · March 25, 2026

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Summary

Representative Greenman’s resolution asking Congress to propose an amendment declaring money is not speech and corporations are not people drew testimony and extended debate; a roll call produced a 6–6 tie and the motion to advance the resolution failed.

Representative Greenman introduced House File 2688, a resolution urging Congress to propose a constitutional amendment to overturn the effects of Citizens United and to clarify that money is not speech and corporations are not people. Greenman framed the measure as a response to rising outside spending in elections and cited polling and spending figures.

Two public testifiers supported the resolution. Jeff Clark, a volunteer with Minnesota Move to Amend, urged passage and argued the resolution tackles corporate personhood and regulatory litigation risks. Joaquin Mendiola Johnson, a 21‑year‑old constituent, told the committee he supports the resolution because he feels ordinary voices are drowned out by money in politics.

Committee members debated scope and process across the ideological spectrum. Some members warned that the proposal would implicate First Amendment protections and raised concerns that the language could affect unions or other organizations; others said the measure is a nonbinding request to Congress and a way to advance public concern about dark money.

A roll‑call vote was requested. The clerk recorded 6 ayes and 6 nays; the motion to refer HF 2688 to Rules did not prevail and the bill was laid on the table.

Outcome: HF 2688 failed to advance in this committee after a 6–6 roll‑call tie; proponents said they will continue advocacy outside committee.