On the Media

Can a Billion Dollars Buy an Election?

Oct 19, 2024
This discussion features Kamala Harris, the U.S. Vice President known for her advocacy of campaign finance reform. She reflects on her shift towards dark money in politics. Steven Sprick Schuster, an economics professor, delves into the complex relationship between campaign spending and election outcomes. Meanwhile, Andrew Perez from Rolling Stone reveals Donald Trump's history of rewarding billionaire benefactors with political favors, illuminating the evolving dynamics of financial influence in elections.
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ANECDOTE

Trump's Donor Dinner

  • Trump hosted billionaire donors, airing grievances and boasting about tax cuts.
  • He suggested donors should be more grateful, highlighting his history of promising favors.
ANECDOTE

Trump and Jeff Yass

  • Trump's relationship with Jeff Yass, a billionaire investor in TikTok's parent company, raised eyebrows.
  • Yass, who previously opposed Trump, now supports him, leading to speculation about a potential Treasury Secretary position.
INSIGHT

Impact of Citizens United

  • The Citizens United decision removed restrictions on dark money in express advocacy.
  • This allowed its use for direct campaign ads, significantly impacting political spending.
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