Not A Pleasant Post

I've been putting off writing this post because the subject is a mixed bag. It's like a bag of....mixed things. Can you tell how much I don't want to write this post? I am ashamed that our political system is one where what I am about to write is the truth. Ready? Here goes: Money=political access.

At every level of politics, politicians have to run for office if they have an opponent. Even if they don't have an opponent, cash on hand allows them to help others in their party who have tough races. Elected officials who receive donations from folks in 'safe districts' are very grateful and are happy to return a favor. Your check will elicit the same result. A campaign costs money, lots of money. The more money you have, the more advertising you can buy, the more staff you can hire, etc.

Our country currently lacks both an effective public campaign finance system, and the donation of ad space and air time by media outlets. In this environment, if you want something from a political decision-maker (grant support, project advocacy, a particular policy etc.) you should think about making a donation to their re-election campaign because it will help your cause. The good news? You don't have to give very much. There. I said it.