All Flashcards
Role of the Federal Election Commission (FEC)?
Enforce campaign finance laws, regulate donations, and oversee campaign finance activities.
Significance of Buckley v. Valeo?
Upheld FECA limits on contributions but struck down limits on candidate's own spending; spending money is free speech.
Significance of Citizens United v. FEC?
Corporations have same free speech rights as individuals; struck down BCRA limits on corporate/union independent expenditures; led to Super PACs.
Cause and Effect of Citizens United?
Cause: Court ruling on corporate free speech. Effect: Rise of Super PACs and increased corporate spending.
Cause and Effect of FECA?
Cause: Desire to regulate campaign finance. Effect: Limits on donations, creation of FEC, rise of soft money.
Cause and Effect of BCRA?
Cause: Soft money loophole and concerns about influence. Effect: Banned soft money, increased disclosure, rise of 527 groups.