State-Level Reforms Deserve Promotion Perversion Money Chase Dominates Political Life.

Political campaigns are so expensive that politicians spend too much time raising money instead of governing. Even worse, they become slaves to the special interests that finance their campaigns.

Americans are sick of this perversion of politics. That’s one reason why many don’t bother to vote. Incumbent congressmen, who benefit from a 10-to-1 campaign contribution advantage over challengers, have no reason to change this corrupt system.

But citizens groups in 40 states are intent on regaining control of democracy with “clean-money” campaign reform. While the specific reforms vary from state to state, they have this in common: they are voluntary and allow candidates to get public financing by collecting a set number of $5 to $100 donations from registered voters. Those candidates who meet the standards get a fixed amount of money, depending on the office they seek.

This may not be a perfect solution and the laws have to be crafted carefully to avoid constitutional problems. For now, the laws apply only to state - not federal - offices.

These reforms are becoming quite popular across the political spectrum. They have been voted into law in traditionally conservative states such as Arizona and in traditionally liberal states such as Massachusetts.

It’s only a matter of time before the will of the people forces some kind of reform into federal campaigns, as well. Let’s take politics out of the hands of the special interests.