Edited by Brady Bryson. The problem of campaign finance resembles that of the weather. There is much talk, but little done, about either. As to the weather we accept it as given that there is no way to attack the root of the problem. We mitigate some of the more extreme effects, with air conditioning, heating systems, special clothing, but the basic inability to control the weather is always there and even worsens, as when holes appear in the ozone layer.
Campaign finance is a no less acute, and no less persistent, problem.
For some time now talk about it has filled the air. But as we go to press it is by no means clear that anything resembling real reform is about to happen. For a writer on public affairs to say nothing about campaign finance reform under present circumstances comes pretty close to joining a broadening conspiracy to kill it for good. Our view is that campaign finance right now is in the worst condition ever, and we are obliged to do something. Also, that responsibility for this debacle must be shared by both major parties, all elected office-holders and the American public itself.