Campaigns and Money in American Government - Essay Example

Campaigns and Money in American Government Campaigns and Money in American Government Having high qualified and competent leaders isthe goal of each state and the citizens feel the results of good leadership. Elections involve a lot of effort and resources and while most people have the effort, the resources may not be available. It is clear that without funding then only the wealthy are able to carry out campaigns and are eventually elected (Donnay. & Graham, 1995). This essay looks campaign funding in U.S.More public funding is needed for campaigns in the U.

S due to the following reasons, providing funds to those who want to run for office will ensure that people with the qualifications but lack funding run for office. It will also provide a competitive political environment by providing a level ground for the candidates. There would be no landslide wins for the incumbents or the famous that are able to hold fundraisers (Breslwo et al, 2000). More public funding would also ensure that the influence of private contributors on the candidate or those in office is reduced.

Replacing private funding with public funding would channel concerns of the general public and not a few. Last, the costs incurred during campaigns would be controlled, preventing overspending, as those funded by the public have to adhere to set limits. (Ansolabehere et al, 2000) The two challenges that face public funding the continuous presence of influence by the wealthy and the high costs of running for elections. Money is defined as speech by the court and these means that one can spend as they wish without interference from the government or anyone else and if this is done then there must be solid justification.

However, accountability is required when it comes to spending resources on campaigns and these can be achieved if the government requires that each candidate provide a budget. An appropriate figure is then decided on the amount to spend based on underlying factors such as the seat one is contesting. This would increase accountability.ReferencesAnsolabehere, S., & James M. Snyder Jr.( 2000.) “The Incumbency Advantage in U.S. Elections: An Analysis of State and Federal Offices.”Election LawJournal 1 (3): 315–38.

Breslwo, M., Janet G, & Paul S.,( 2002).Revitalizing Democracy: Clean Elections Shows the Way Forward .Northeast Action Coalition. Money and Politics Implemen-tation Project (January).Donnay, P,. D.,& Graham P. R.( 1995). “Public Financing of Legislative Elections: Lessons from Minnesota. Legislative Studies Quarterly 20 (3): 351–64