The right kind of campaign finance reform

[CARLHAYDEN]

There are basically two different approaches to "campaign finance reform."  One seeks to stifle debate and the other encourages it.

In Arizona, as in a few other states, candidates for state elective office have the opportunity to include a statement supporting their candidacy in a pamphlet published by the Arizona Clean Elections Commission, and mailed to all eligible registered voters (I have my copy right by my desk for the Primary Election).  In addition, candidates who raise small contributions for a specified number of voters (statewide offices require more than legislative offices) they are guaranteed that if their opponents outspend them (reports on spending are required with considerable frequency), they commission will match the spending.  I think this is an excellent approach as it actually reduces the power of the wealthy few.

The McCain approach seeks to silence dissent.

Lets have more open discussion and information.

[NDN]

Very sensible, Carl. I've been a huge advocate of this for awhile now. Naturally Washington will never actually do it.