At the same time, we share in the growing public concern that the ability of these and other citizens to participate in the political process, the trust of all citizens in their government and the health of our democracy are all jeopardized by the current system under which political campaigns are conducted and election results are determined. The bishops also observed that the increase in spending has been accompanied by two other trends, a decline in voter turnout, and a coarsening of political rhetoric. The draft does not endorse any specific reform proposal but does provide criteria from Catholic ethical and social teachings as a basis for evaluating reform proposals. The draft also addresses the use of public tax dollars to fund campaigns, and the regulation or limitation of election related expenditures. On the subject of public financing, the statement says public financing can be an appropriate way to fund most election costs.
Government is the means by which society seeks to identify, achieve, and protect the common good.
Nor does a candidate's receipt of public funds signify endorsement of a specific candidate or philosophy any more than use of tax dollars for health care, universities, or schools implies endorsement of religious groups who operate those institutions. The draft also rejects the contention that regulation of campaign expenses inhibits free speech. Huebscher said that Catholics and others are encouraged to discuss the draft statement and offer comments to the Wisconsin Catholic Conference. He added that the comments will be analyzed and considered with a second draft at the WCC's next Board meeting in October. But as June winds to a close, Capitol watchers are predicting that the budget won't pass until late July.