To the Point
Taking the Lid Off Campaign Contributions
Political prognosticators say, “Follow the money.” And, in this year’s mid-term elections, there’s more money to follow than ever. Is the lack of limit on campaign contributions a victory for “free speech” or a defeat for democracy? What’s the possible impact on the House and the Senate this year?
By Warren Olney • • 52m ListenPolitical prognosticators say, “Follow the money.” And, in this year’s mid-term elections, there’s more money to follow than ever. In April, the US Supreme Court ruled that individuals can give away as much as they want to—with no limit on the total amount of their contributions. Big donors already are boasting that more candidates are showing up at their doors, enhancing their influence on the people who make the laws. Is it a victory for “free speech” or a defeat for democracy? What’s the possible impact on the House and the Senate this year?
Also, the Obama Justice Department will open a civil rights investigation into the police department in Ferguson, Missouri in the wake of hte Michael Brown shooting. Plus: Are drills to prepare for mass shootings prudent planning, or exercises in terror?
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In this episode
3 storiesDOJ Will Open Civil Rights Probe into Ferguson Police
The FBI is already investigating the shooting death of black teenager Michael Brown by a white policeman in Ferguson, Missouri. Now, after civil unrest that was reported around the world, the Obama Justice Department will open a broader, civil rights investigation into the Ferguson P.D .
Read the story6 minWithout Limits, Will Campaign Contributions Dominate Politics?
There’s just nine weeks left before the mid-term elections—and there’s more money than ever for Senate and House campaigns. In April, Alabama businessman Shaun McCutcheon gave his name to a US Supreme Court decision to eliminate legal restrictions on how much an individual can give in total to candidates and committees.
Read the story35 minActive Shooter Drills Elicit Lawsuits
In the aftermath of all too many mass shootings and other violent incidents, there’s been more and more effort to prepare for the worst. But that’s easier said than done. Michelle Meeker is a registered nurse who quit her job and sued a Colorado nursing home after it staged a drill designed to prepare employees for an armed intruder.
Read the story8 min
