A Billion Dollar Presidency?
When we consider the amount of cash that has been spent in recent elections, (local and otherwise) then the percentages below of returned illegal contributions could be considered relatively low.
While this WSJ emphasizes the Clinton campaign, it is clear from the chart that none of the current presidential candidates has escaped this problem.
And, if we look at what just the presidential candidates have laid out in their quest, the illegal contributions are just a drop in the bucket. Certainly money which should be returned but small potatoes by comparison.
There is a scary thought expressed in the piece referenced above which addresses primarily Indiana politics:
How much money?
The amounts are staggering. A peek at some of the political Web sites reveals some surprising insights. Just look at the presidential race:
Depending on which source you use, the total raised to date is astonishing. CNN’s Politics.Com shows the total raised is $777 million. Another site, OpenSecrets.com lists it as $792 million. Either way, we are well on our way to a presidential race costing one billion dollars. [emphasis, mine]
The necessity of a candidate to raise these enormous amounts of cash to finance a run for office would certainly leave the door open to those who might illegally help fund their choice for any number of reasons.
Those who work at the grassroots level have no delusions of grandeur or thoughts of becoming a power player in the party or in an administration. Maybe campaigns would begin once again to focus on these individuals rather than the power players. It might be beneficial in the long run.
Not being beholden in one way or another to individuals, corporations or special interest groups could produce a more honest candidate and one who might just work in the best interest of those who they represent. It would certainly go a long way toward trouncing the opinion that many running for office are bought and paid for.
I know, dream on, right? Money has become such a part of our political landscape that the chance for one without wealth and connections to secure a nomination for many offices becomes slim.
In no way do I mean to imply that all who run for office and win are in someones pocket. That would be painting the situation with all too broad a brush.
There are many who are involved (at local and state levels especially), who secure their positions due to trust which they have earned from their constituents through the years.
But when a citizen takes the time to study the numbers in the various pieces above it certainly does not leave you with a warm and fuzzy feeling.
Written by Sue
