Another Way, by Lawrence Lessig S6S4: The Fight to End SuperPACs and Originalism
Sep 11, 2024
Lawrence Lessig, a prominent legal scholar and advocate for campaign finance reform, delves into the historical battle against SuperPACs. He discusses the decline of billionaire support for political reform and the implications of the Citizens United decision. Lessig critiques originalism as a tool to redefine corruption beyond quid pro quo, advocating for a comprehensive understanding rooted in the Constitution's vision. He emphasizes the need for citizen mobilization to challenge the current political landscape and push for meaningful change.
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The Fight to End SuperPACs
- Various groups fight against SuperPACs, including those advocating for constitutional amendments and others aiming for reform-minded Congress.
- Amending the Constitution is difficult, and there's disagreement on strategies, with some favoring a convention while others focus on Congressional proposals.
Mayday PAC
- Lessig launched Mayday, a SuperPAC aiming to end all SuperPACs, initially aiming for a billion dollars but running a smaller pilot program.
- The pilot, though electing figures like Ruben Gallego, was deemed a failure for not attracting enough attention.
Shifting Views of Billionaires
- Billionaires' views on SuperPACs have shifted, with some now supporting the system for its power, not solely for personal gain but for advancing causes.
- Some support SuperPACs for advancing their idea of good, like supporting abortion rights or opposing climate regulations.