“A people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power knowledge gives.” - James Madison

What does that mean in today’s frenetic, wired civic life? Traditional news sources are collapsing and attack ads, hype and vitriol are spinning out of control. Vote Smart stands as the only stable, civil, comprehensive source for the kind of knowledge citizens MUST have in order to self-govern wisely: accurate, abundant, relevant information about our political leaders and those who wish to replace them.

Unlike virtually every other source for political information, Vote Smart is independent, beholden to no special interest, and takes no position on any issue or cause. The research Vote Smart’s staff, interns and volunteers compile is funded only by individual contributions and occasional foundation grants. They are taking large chunks of time out of their young lives to build a Voter’s Self-Defense System that all Americans can use freely and trust.

And what does that mean for the world their children and grandchildren will inherit from us? It means that Vote Smart MUST survive and continue to be a beacon of light, illuminating the facts impartially and arming them “with the power that knowledge gives.” This potential is yours to create through Vote Smart’s Legacy Gifts Program. Please read about some of the planned giving options you may choose to ensure the survival of civility and truth.

Note: Vote Smart was designated a 501(c)(3) educational organization by the IRS in 1988 under the name Center for National Independence in Politics. Approved name modifications since then include Project Vote Smart and Vote Smart. These names are recognized by the IRS as “dba (doing business as)” designations.

Vote Smart’s EIN is 85-0364261.

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