The Republic of Virtue: How We Tried to Ban Corruption, Failed, and What We Can Do About It

by F.H. Buckley

Here are three proposals for election law reform that would curb corruption rather than aggravate it: • Unless they are lobbyists, donors should have an unimpeded ability to contribute anonymously to campaign committees and political parties without fear of intimidation or harassment. But when the money is paid into the official’s pockets, that changes things, and a bribery charge properly applies if pay-for-play is promised or given. • While they can give useful information about proposed rules to overworked congressional staffers, lobbyists should be barred from leveraging their influence through campaign contributions and fundraising for elected officials. • Lobbyists should not be permitted to “capture” a legislator or congressional staffer with the promise of a high-paying job after he leaves government. To prevent this practice, a Chinese Wall should be erected between lobbying and legislating to close off the revolving door between the two activities.