Why Is This Happening? The Chris Hayes Podcast The Hidden Plot to Legalize Corruption with David Sirota
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Dec 2, 2025 
David Sirota, an investigative journalist and founder of The Lever, dives deep into the alarming normalization of corruption in American politics. He discusses how decades of legal changes have made anti-bribery laws nearly unenforceable. Renowned for his insights, Sirota explores historical parallels, from Watergate's aftermath to current trends in campaign finance. He highlights the evolving tactics employed by politicians, including Trump, and examines how money and influence shape policy beyond direct payments. His thoughts on meaningful reforms offer a glimmer of hope amidst the corruption.
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Corruption Was Legalized Not Just Revealed
- David Sirota traces modern legalized systemic corruption back to post-Watergate reforms that normalized corporate political spending.
- He argues the shift replaced suitcase graft with institutionalized big-money influence that shapes policy outcomes.
Court Rulings Enlarged The Corruption Gap
- The Supreme Court has narrowed anti-bribery jurisprudence while Citizens United treated money as protected speech.
- That combination carved out broad legal space for influence that the public experiences as corruption.
Money Decides Local Politics
- Money matters most in lower-tier races where attention is scarce and local media is hollowed out.
- That money dependency warps who becomes viable and how politicians think about policy priorities.
