Are we a democracy, or a plutocracy?
June 26th, 2010When it is said, as it often is, that where America goes, Europe (and particularly the UK) will follow soon, it is worrisome that we do not have our own self-confidence and our distinctive vision. When it is said about the funding of politics, it is deeply disturbing.
It has just been estimated that spending in the current US Congressional elections will exceed $3.7bn (£2.5bn). In one State alone, California, $100m (£69m) has already been spendt by two multi-millionaires in the race for the Republican nomination – that’s before the real battle starts against the Democratic candidate. Such huge sums of money are spent, not only on saturation TV coverage with personal attack advertising, but also on chartered jets, hotels, political consultants (charging up to $90,000 a month), and vote delivery. Is this where we’re heading? (more…)
