5.11  Campaign Finance

The impact of federal policies on campaigning and electoral rules continues to be contested by both sides of the political spectrum.

 Explain how the organization, finance, and strategies of national political campaigns affect the election process. 

Federal legislation and case law pertaining to campaign finance demonstrate the ongoing debate over the role of money in political and free speech, as set forth in:

• Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002, which was an effort to ban soft money and reduce attack ads with the “Stand by Your Ad” provision: “I’m [candidate’s name] and I approve this message”

• Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission (2010), which ruled that political spending by corporations, associations, and labor unions is a form of protected speech under the First Amendment 

Debates have increased over free speech and competitive and fair elections related to money and campaign funding (including contributions from individuals, political action committees [PACs], and political parties). 

Different types of PACs influence elections and policy making through fundraising and spending.