Because soft-money contributions aren't regulated by federal election laws, companies are not limited in their donations, which can be appealing, he said. Soft money, however, is supposed to be used only to support party-building activities, such as advertising or administrative costs, or encouraging people to vote. Companies make the donations often because they are asked to make them, and they tend to donate more heavily to Republican party committees, Makinson said. Executives probably feel that if they don't contribute, it might be held against them, he added.
Companies usually give to both parties, but tend to donate more to the one they favor.
The company gave to both parties in order to gain support for its views on telecommunications, said spokesperson Claire Hassett. And ultimately, there are candidates in both parties that support our goals. MCI wants to open local telecommunication markets to competitors and let consumers chose their provider. And because these policies are clearly defined and well-known by both parties, Hassett is confident that all donations to committees will go for activities or candidates supporting these views. Tobacco companies like Philip Morris Inc. lead in making soft money donations, giving more to Republicans, Makinson said.