We are concerned about campaign financing because it can inhibit the voices of those who are economically disadvantaged. In the United States, it is illegal to donate more than $2,000 directly to a political candidate. However, you can indirectly donate an unlimited amount of money to a third party organization associated with certain candidates. This is called soft money. These organizations include PACs and 527 groups. This donating allows those who can afford it to have more influence on the election and policy process than those who can't afford to donate. However, the Supreme Court has also ruled that donating in the form of soft money falls under the right to free speech, and is therefore protected under the Constitution. That being said, we believe that monetary speech takes attention away from actual speech, as politicians are more likely to listen to those whose issues are associated with money.

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