Too Late for Campaign Finance Reform: A How-To Guide to Government Sanctioned Corruption

Abstract

In a world dominated by Quid-pro-quo dealing, it is natural to wonder what people are receiving when they contribute to campaigns. Certainly, they are trying to influence the outcome of elections. While this paper does propose solutions to curtail ‘buying influence,’ in light of the recent events, such as the Citizens United Supreme Court decision, it looks like reform/limitation is not the direction our nation is heading. The following pages will provide a discussion of the history of campaign finance, and an explanation of recent events that have impacted the country’s current trajectory with regard to campaign finance laws. In addition, it will answer questions relating to what campaign contributors can expect to receive in exchange for their ‘donations,’ and how you, too, (assuming you can afford it,) can buy your own friendly, neighborhood politician.