Alexandria, VA – The Institute for Free Speech released the following statement regarding today’s announcement that former Federal Election Commission (FEC) Chairman and current Vice Chairman Matthew Petersen is resigning from the Commission, effective August 31st.

“We wish to congratulate Matthew Petersen on a successful eleven-year tenure at the Federal Election Commission. Throughout his time at the FEC, Commissioner Petersen demonstrated a commitment to fair and effective enforcement of campaign finance laws. His respect for First Amendment rights and Supreme Court precedent should serve as a model for future commissioners. Commissioner Petersen’s faithful execution of the FEC’s mission is all the more impressive in light of the shrill and misleading criticisms often levied at the Commission. His presence at the FEC will be missed.

“Following Commissioner Petersen’s resignation, the FEC will no longer have a quorum to conduct business. The three remaining commissioners were appointed by President George W. Bush and are all long past the end of their terms. It is imperative that congressional leaders and President Trump work together to fill the vacancies at the FEC,” said Institute for Free Speech Chairman Bradley A. Smith.

About the Institute for Free Speech

The Institute for Free Speech is a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that promotes and defends the First Amendment rights to freely speak, assemble, publish, and petition the government. Originally known as the Center for Competitive Politics, it was founded in 2005 by Bradley A. Smith, a former Chairman of the Federal Election Commission. The Institute is the nation’s largest organization dedicated solely to protecting First Amendment political rights.