The American voters are choosing to abstain from voting more than ever. At the latest election, the midterm elections in 2014, the voter turnout was a little over 36%. In other words, almost two-thirds of those eligible to vote, stayed home on Election Day. Continue reading “The Low Voter Turnout”
When a child receives a big and expensive present for Christmas from one uncle and maybe a smaller and inexpensive one from another uncle, the child tends to favor the first uncle. Maybe the same can be said about political candidates and their contributors? Do rich interests have greater access and influence in politics through the favor of political candidates compared to poorer interests? Continue reading “Unequal Representation?”
The increase in campaign spending and the ensuing dependency on campaign contributions have been named the “permanent campaign,” by certain scholars. The concept of the Permanent Campaign explains the state of modern campaign financing. Continue reading “The Permanent Campaign”
When talking about campaign spending, an important question comes to mind: Does money win elections? This article will attempt to answer that question, while looking at campaign spending’s effect on electoral success. Continue reading “Does Money Win Elections?”
It is undeniable that money and politics are deeply entwined within the US political system. The main reason for this is campaign spending. Continue reading “Campaign Spending”
After examining the First Amendment and the Supreme Court’s role in Part I, this part will take a look at the legislative branch, Congress, and its role in allowing lobbying and soft money in US politics. Through the past decades, Congress has tried to reform the way lobbying and campaign finance works. Continue reading “Why Lobbying is Allowed, part II”
Why it is allowed for lobbyists, interest groups and other outside actors to engage in lobbying activities to the extent it currently is. The Constitution, the Supreme Court and Congress have all shaped the current legal framework that enable lobbying activities. Continue reading “Why Lobbying is Allowed, part I”
“In the marketplace of American politics, the packaging of political issues is often as important as the product.”
This quote underlines both the impact of lobbying activities and the need for it in the current political and electoral environment in the US. Continue reading “The Impact of Lobbying”
American Elections 