The early weeks of the next Congressional session may be the most opportune moment yet for making real progress in campaign financing reform.

Dissatisfaction with the conduct of the Iraq war has been widely cited as a principal factor in the change of command triggered on Election Day. But not far below that on the scale of voter outrage was widespread disgust with the way lobbyists' campaign contributions have corrupted lawmakers. Lobbyist Jack Abramoff has just begun serving time on charges including conspiracy to bribe public officials.

The new Democratic majority feels pressure to make significant changes — pressure with a sharp political edge. In the Senate, Democrat Russ Feingold was part of a push for reform, but so was GOP presidential hopeful John McCain. The Democrats in both houses should want to seize the issue, or risk being called out for failing to heed a voters' directive for change.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi, soon to be speaker of the House, is expected to propose lobbying and ethics reforms, but so far the newly elected party leadership has yet to commit to a proposal for full public financing of congressional elections.

Unfortunately, Hawai'i hasn't yet signed on with the "Clean Elections" movement, either, but there are several states that have, and they could provide a template. For example, Maine's public campaign financing system is in its fourth cycle, and the number of "Clean Elections" candidates successfully seeking election is growing. Similar success stories are unfolding in Arizona, North Carolina. Connecticut, New Jersey, New Mexico and Vermont.

Democrats who want to seal their pledge owe the voters legislation that could help restore faith in government. Let's hope they go beyond the superficial stage.