Typically, Simple Facts and Simple Truths avoids advocating for or against any one politician or party. The purpose here is to inform the reader about issues. And where we occasionally agree with a candidate, does not mean we endorse them.
But, there are issues that are being flushed into the open in the current political process. One common campaign theme is that "there is too much money in politics"... and.... "our political system should work for everyone and not just Wall Street.." Bernie Sanders is someone that talks often about these issues. In fact, one candidate's stump speech resonates with many Americans when he says "I am not taking money from anyone."
With so many important issues facing America and the free world, it seems difficult to focus on campaign finance reform. Simple F&T has felt that way many times. You may recall that many democrats complain about the Supreme Court ruling in "Citizens United" which found that corporations and other entities had a right to free speech and could use $millions to advocate for or against candidates.
The Simple Facts are that many...many... wealthy donors, be they individuals, corporations, not for profit organizations, and "political action committees" are contributing millions and millions to the political process. These wealthy and $million donors, not to mention the $10,000 and $100,000 donors, are influencing elected leaders, advisers close to leaders and bureaucrats in our government. The Simple Facts are that these mega donors and influence "takers" work on both sides of the political process. Yes Dems have them too. So do R's.
The Simple Truth is that when someone receives millions for themselves, their friends, their party or their cause, they are beholden in some fashion to that donor. When a politician says: "If you think money influences me, you don't know me...." they are either simply lying or are delusional. The first time they don't take a phone call from a mega donor, or give serious consideration to an issue raised by a donor, the funds flow will stop. Unfortunately, most politicians think the most important thing they do is to get reelected to remain in power. Don't we wish they thought serving our best interests were the best thing they can do.
The Simple Truth is that the Constitution of the United States invests power in the people in a democratic process. Individual VOTES are what elects people to represent us and run our government. No where in the US constitution does it say you get multiple votes for donating money. But when a mega donor has more influence on an elected official then the people that elect them, that is a defacto violation of the principles of the US Constitution.
Yes, our constitution also protects the right of free speech, and the right to petition our government. And yes, mega donors also have that right. But that right is one vote to one person. Not 1 million votes per person that result from contributions.
Included below is a link to an article about a major donor and frequently cited billionaire in the press. George Soros has spent millions to influence American politics. This article cites many of his views and repeated efforts. It is important for you to consider Mr. Soros as he celebrates values and suffering that are at odds with values of most Americans. He is a more extreme example of the influence on politics one person can have when most of us believe he should not.
Are there solutions? The Simple Truth is there are solutions. yet, many we elect will never support these solutions because it will cut off the "oxygen" to their preservation of power in office. Watch this column for solutions. In the mean time, comment below your thoughts.
IS Bernie Sanders right? On this issue...he is....
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