When Jeb Bush dropped out of the Presidential race this weekend, my first thought was about all that money. Running for elected office costs too much money and all that money is seen a corrupting influence. One of the most controversial rulings was Citizens United that broadened the rights of corporations and unions when comes to political spending. This 2016 Presidential race is the first big test of the Super PAC.
The Super PAC has lost. Or at least, they are not assuring victory.
Before I continue, I’ll let you know that I don’t like any of the current major candidates running for President. My political views don’t fit neatly into either party. (I’m liberal on social issues and conservative on economic issues.)
Jeb Bush had a huge war chest for his campaign between his own campaign and the Super PAC that had lined up behind him. He also had the Bush campaign infrastructure in place.
Hilary Clinton had a huge war chest for her campaign, with a sweep of donations and a giant Super PAC behind her. She had the Clinton political machine in place behind her.
A year ago it seemed very likely that we would see Bush versus Clinton for President.
After three votes, it seems that money does not buy an election. Bush has dropped out after three dismal results. Clinton is in a tough fight with a Socialist Senator from the tiny state of Vermont.
Perhaps I see a bit more faith in democracy and hope that money alone will not buy an election. There is still too much money in politics. Whether or not it has an actual corrupting influence, it certainly has the appearance of a corrupting influence.
Sources:
- The Super PAC Bust in the Wall Street Journal
- Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission