Senate Democrats have unveiled legislation making it easier to vote and curbing the influence of big money in politics.
The bill is destined to go nowhere in the Republican-run Senate. But Democrats see it as a way to make populist appeals to voters in next year's presidential and congressional elections.
Chief sponsor Sen. Tom Udall of New Mexico says every Senate Democrat is sponsoring the measure. He says the bill will be a "defining moment" when Democratic candidates talk about their effort and Republicans defend "the status quo."
The Democratic-run House approved similar legislation earlier this month. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky has criticized that bill, saying it would rewrite election rules to benefit Democrats. McConnell is not expected to let the Senate measure advance in his chamber.