August 26, 2004
MoveOn and 527s
Since Bush has such a massive advantage when it comes to campaign war chests, I tend to see Bush's argument that 527s shouldn't participate in the presidential campaign as unfair and misleading.
But by doing this, I seem to be compromising the ideal of campaign finance reform--that is, creating a more level playing field in terms of political speech. On the other hand, if we had a real public campaign financing system and a media bent toward emancipation rather than exploitation, then perhaps it would be possible to set up relatively fair rules.
In the real world, which lacks utopian reforms, I give MoveOn a large portion of the credit for revitalizing the Democratic Party. I trust MoveOn, considerably more than I trust Kerry, to continue fighting for my values. If Kerry should be elected, I want MoveOn ready to pounce as soon as he screws up. And when Kerry is unfairly smeared, I want MoveOn to be prepared to defend him.
Organizations like MoveOn seem good for the level of communication and education in America, and I trust that organizations on the Right will emerge to do the same thing for Republicans. Such entities could become a real remedy to the excesses of mass media democracy and runaway capitalism since they can organize boycotts, protests, and fundraising at practically no cost. Ecopledge is a similar kind of site with powerful potential to make a real difference.
If campaign finance reform means preventing MoveOn from engaging in the public discourse, I'm not sure I can continue to advocate campaign finance reform. For the future of campaign finance reform, I would look to the European example. That is, provide more matching funds rather than limit the money flowing into speech.
Edit: Matt Yglesias seems to on the same page, except he has apparently been sceptical of campaign finance all along.
Actually, his advantage has been nullified by Kerry so far.
As for campaign finance reform, the only way we'll see any true reform is if candidates are no longer allowed to fund themselves. I propose a few changes:
1. Require broadcast networks to air campaign commercials for free.
2. Provide 100% government funding for all serious candidates. Serious should be defined as someone capable of garnering say, 3% of the vote.
3. Abolish the electoral college. Make the election based on the popular vote.
4. Institute some form of instant run-off voting.