Lecture Notes: The Influence of Money on Democracy

Overview

• Democracy faced with challenges from wealthy donors.
• 2020 US election: most expensive in history ($14.4 billion).
• Top 25,000 richest people account for 40% of campaign contributions.
• Georgia Senate runoff in 2021: $470 million, most expensive congressional election.
• "For the People Act" aimed at campaign finance reform, stalled in the Senate.

Historical Context

Early Attempts at Reform

• 1896 Election: bribery accusations against McKinley and Bryan.
• Tillman Act (1907): Banned corporate donations to federal campaigns.
• Publicity Act (1910): Required public disclosure of election spending.

Continued Corruption

• Teapot Dome Scandal: Led to stricter laws on political corruption in the 1920s.
• Federal Corrupt Practices Act (1925): Required financial disclosures, gave Congress investigative powers.
• 1940s-1950s: Extension of Tillman Act to unions, leading to creation of PACs.

Evolution of PACs and Campaign Finance

• PACs can't take corporate/union money directly but allow pooling from individuals.
• Federal Election Campaign Act (1971): Set limits on advertising spending, allowed PAC formation.
• Supreme Court rulings, like Buckley v. Valeo (1976), began to weaken finance laws.

Citizens United and Its Impact

• Citizens United v. FEC (2010): Allowed unlimited corporate spending in politics.
• Consequences:
  • Surge in "dark money" (undisclosed sources) influencing elections.
  • Growth of ads and influence campaigns by non-profits and corporations.
• Encouraged spending by wealthy individuals and corporations, notably benefiting Republicans.

Effects on Politics

• Increase in election spending doesn't necessarily change election outcomes for incumbents.
• Early fundraising is crucial for lesser-known candidates.
• Rising costs deter non-wealthy individuals from running for office.

Public Perception and Consequences

• Growing belief in government serving a few interests.
• General consensus across political lines on the negative influence of money.

Potential Solutions and Actions

• Advocate for campaign finance reform.
• Support candidates early, especially in primaries.
• Volunteer in campaigns.
• Consider running for office, especially for underrepresented groups.

Resources

• She Should Run: Resources for women interested in running for office.
• Brennan Center for Justice: Advocates for campaign finance reform.
• LGBTQ+ Victory Fund: Supports LGBTQ+ candidates.

Conclusion

• Active participation in local elections can make a difference.
• Continued advocacy and awareness are necessary to combat the influence of money in politics.