FEC publishes interactive timeline for agency’s 50th anniversary

WASHINGTON—Today, the Federal Election Commission unveiled an updated interactive timeline tracing landmark dates in the agency’s 50 years of existence. From the earliest days of the agency to more recent developments, the timeline offers brief descriptions of key events, supplemented by photos, videos and links to additional information.

First developed a decade ago to mark the agency’s 40th anniversary, the timeline highlights notable dates in FEC history and focuses on eight major categories: the Commission, Disclosure, Enforcement, Legislation, Litigation, Outreach, Public Funding and Regulations.

“Established after Watergate in 1975, the Federal Election Commission has stood firm with its mission to protect the integrity of the federal campaign finance process by providing transparency and fairly enforcing and administering federal campaign finance laws,” said FEC Chair Shana M. Broussard. “I am thrilled to be celebrating the Federal Election Commission’s 50th anniversary with the launch of our updated timeline webpage. As we mark this milestone, I hope viewers will use the timeline to gain a better understanding of the agency’s history and significance. This anniversary is a celebration of the agency’s accomplishments and also a reminder of the work that remains. As Chair, I continue to strive to serve the American public and I want to recognize my fellow Commissioners and the Commission’s current and former staff for their service.”

Following the establishment of the agency by Congress in 1974, the first six Commissioners took their oaths of office on April 14, 1975, and the FEC opened to the public on the same day.