This is What Anonymous Funding Looks Like

Who paid William McKinley's presidential campaign expenses? The short answer is: we have no idea. Prior to the 20th century, and especially prior the 1970s, campaign finance was the darkest secret of American politics. Money was raised in secret, often in very large amounts, and spent in ways …

Read more

Written by David Frum on Tuesday October 4, 2011

Palin's PAC Piggy Bank

The release of Stephen Bannon's movie is prompting conservatives to wonder if Palin might after all run for president. But the Edwards indictment may give her pause. The release of Stephen Bannon's movie is prompting some conservatives to wonder hopefully or worriedly that Sarah Palin might …

Read more

Written by David Frum on Friday June 10, 2011

No Bailouts for Incumbents

SCOTUS is reviewing a law which would provide matching funds for less well-funded candidates. But would this level the playing field or just boost incumbents? The Supreme Court in McComish v. Bennett and a companion case, is addressing an Arizona law that attempts to “equalize” speech in …

Read more

Written by John Vecchione on Tuesday March 29, 2011