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Originally Posted by delusianne
I think it was code for "Lalalala, I can't hear you"
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I enjoyed your post, Delusianne. There are two separate issues here that some posters are linking: campaign money and corrupting power of lobbyists.
On the campaign front, the SEIU was the largest donor this cycle, period. Total money raised on each side was roughly equal, with the Dems having a slight advantage.
The broader money infrastructure that Reich talks about in his article is a problem with governance, not with election finance. When the tax code has special breaks for NASCAR track owners and rum importers, we have lost "equal treatment under the law." The governance problem is huge. Goldman Sachs has seemed at times to be the 4th branch of government. Crony capitalism strikes at the foundations of our system.
In my opinion, all too often millions of businesses have been tarred with a broad brush because of the actions of the few. Thousands of banks were vilified based on the actions of a few. The CEO salaries of a few dozen companies have been license to cast doubt on the fundamental basis of the free enterprise system. I understand the good people who allege that the administration has created a hostile environment for business. A lot of money went to Republican "outside" groups from businesses who get nothing from crony capitalism but feel that change is needed for them to do business, hire people, and thrive.
So I would fight side by side with you on one issue, but against you on the other. It is maddening that crony capitalism seems to thrive no matter who is in power. But the health of the other 99% of American businesses is vital to our future vitality and prosperity.
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