September 1, 2004
Bush Campaign Sues FEC
The Bush Campaign is suing the FEC, trying to force the agency to derail 527s like Moveon.org and America Coming Together. If you think this is because the Bush campaign is eager to support campaign reform, I can offer another interpretation: they didn't get started early enough with their own 527s, and they're having trouble getting them up and running and funded in time to affect the election. The next best thing is to try to shut the progressive 527s down. [Link]
Posted by Jon Lebkowsky at September 1, 2004 4:32 PM
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Isn't it funny that the president that signed the law into effect is now suing to have the law changed. Is this considered a flip-flop or not?
Although I may not agree with all the advertisement messages of every single 527, I agree that they have the right to have their voice and opinion heard. The fact that the 8,000 plus years of combined education in Congress and the Whitehouse could not find a way to handle the problems that come with allowing free speech ammuses me.
Therefore, let this high school grad give them a few good pointers for the next round of changes to the law.
1) All political commercials ran by anyone must meet the following;
a) State the issue clearly
b) Explain their view on the issue
c) Explain their message exactly.
d) Back up all claims with real varifiable facts
2) Create a National Political Truth Group
This non-profit group would be funded equally by all political parties wishing to particapate in an election and would be responsible for digging up the truth about all candidates. They would use the community service status of the FCC laws to broadcast the same message across the country. Thus allowing a level playing field for all citizens to make an informed decission.
3) Set fines of up to $5,000,000.00 for violations of these rules to the party who made them and a $1,000,000.00 fine for every airing or broadcast of said advertisement found to be guilty of such violations.
I think these rulings would change the face of our politicians being able to sling mud at their opponent while still allowing any group to have their right of free speech.