Political Quotes

“I rise to elaborate on my vote on H.R. 2356, the latest effort at campaign finance "reform." I voted against the McCain-Feingold bill earlier this Congress, and I see little improvement in the bill we are currently debating. For this reason, I will vote against the latest attempt at campaign finance "reform." I oppose this legislation on two grounds. First, the bill creates new loopholes for groups to exploit, and fails to create a level playing field in the political process. Second, the bill continues to impose unconstitutional restrictions upon every American's right to free speech and association. After 7 years of debate over this legislation, we are still left with a fundamentally flawed bill that attempts to strip away long-held protections cherished by Americans and restrict access to the marketplace of ideas. I am particularly dismayed that the proponents of this legislation have decided to create loopholes and exceptions for 501(c)(4) organizations. Some would suggest that the bill bans "issue ads" from corporate and nonprofit interest groups 30 days before a primary, and 60 days before a general election. Yet, the crafters of the language have allowed non-profit advocacy groups, 501(c)(4) organizations, a free shot at candidates and limited restrictions on their poisonous "issue ads." As long as their advertisement is not targeted, by name, at a political candidate, they face no restriction 60 days, or even 1 day, before an election.”