Despite these concerns, Americans are not enthusiastic about campaign finance reform because they don't think Washington is capable of doing a fair or effective job of overhauling the system. This month's Gallup Poll demonstrated a similar lack of public confidence in the consequences of reform legislation. When Americans are questioned as to why they pay so little heed to the issue, few say that it's not important to them but some cite its complexity. Most, however, point to the partisan nature of Washington's debate over changing the campaign finance laws, and say that politicians will always find a way to subvert the rules. Responses to these questions suggest reactions on this issue are similar to opinions about George W. Bush's proposed tax cut.
People go along with the idea, even though most have doubts about the potential benefits.
Given these views, members of Congress who choose to vote against McCain-Feingold may face less risk of punishment from the electorate than one would expect.