Why Research Campaign Finances?

Money in politics shapes policy more than most people realize. By tracking where candidates get their funding, you can see who they’re really accountable to—the voters, or big donors and special interests. Campaign finance research helps uncover conflicts of interest, exposes hidden influences, and empowers you to make informed decisions at the ballot box. OpenSecrets.org is one of the best tools to follow the money and hold leaders accountable. 

State Secretary of State – Election Authority

Your Secretary of State’s website is the official source for all election information. From filing deadlines and ballot access requirements to candidate guides and election calendars, this is where you’ll find the rules of the road. Every candidate must reference it to stay compliant and on track throughout the campaign cycle.

Ballotpedia – Candidate & Ballot Information

Ballotpedia is a nonpartisan encyclopedia of American politics. It offers clear, factual profiles of candidates, ballot measures, and election dates at every level of government. Whether you’re researching your opponents, exploring past election results, or checking what will appear on your ballot, Ballotpedia is an essential tool for staying informed.

League of Women Voters – Vote411.org

Vote411.org provides personalized election guides created by the League of Women Voters. Simply enter your address to see tailored information on candidates, races, and ballot measures in your area. It’s a voter-focused resource designed to cut through confusion and empower communities with clear, accessible election information.

Campaign Finance Handbooks & Guides

Most states publish official campaign finance handbooks—usually available as PDFs—through the Secretary of State or Ethics Commission. These guides explain contribution rules, reporting schedules, and compliance requirements in plain language. They’re the go-to manual for navigating the legal side of campaigning.

Federal Election Commission (FEC) – Federal Candidates

If you’re running for the U.S. House or Senate, the Federal Election Commission is your compliance hub. The FEC sets the rules for contribution limits, reporting deadlines, and disclosure requirements at the federal level. Their site also provides forms, training, and data on campaign finance nationwide.

Campaign Treasurer / Accountant Filing Portal

In Texas, candidates file campaign finance reports through the Texas Ethics Commission. This portal tracks contributions and expenditures, ensuring transparency and compliance with state law. Other states operate similar ethics or campaign finance boards. Filing here isn’t optional—it’s the legal foundation of running for office.

VoteSmart.org – Candidate Records & Positions

VoteSmart is a nonpartisan resource that tracks how candidates actually vote and what they’ve said about key issues. It compiles public statements, voting records, and policy positions, giving voters and candidates a fact-based view of where officials stand. It’s especially useful for comparing records to campaign promises.

Civic Engagement Groups

National and local civic groups—such as Common Cause or grassroots community organizations—provide tools, trainings, and advocacy support for both voters and candidates. They focus on strengthening democracy by promoting transparency, fair elections, and citizen participation. Engaging with these groups can help candidates connect with communities and stay informed about broader reform efforts.