Reformers are simply trying to draw a distinct line between money spent on true issue advocacy on the one hand, and money spent on electioneering to influence the outcome of elections on the other. Unlimited, undisclosed money is overwhelming the election system. By running ads immediately preceding an election that savage a candidate's opponent, special interests can provide something of great value to the candidate they support, while avoiding disclosure requirements and contribution limits. They know it is developing into one of the best ways to get policy results on Capitol Hill. In addition, candidates are losing control of their own campaigns.
Representative government depends on elected officials being responsible to their constituencies.
Unless the sham issue ad loophole is closed, outcomes of elections will more and more be determined by the irresponsible actions of outsiders, unfettered by the need to represent the interests of the citizens of a state or district. Finally, money is being directed by political operatives to outside groups to avoid contribution limits and disclosure. These groups then claim their rights would be subverted by reform. It is nothing less than a sophisticated form of money laundering. The following is the text of a broadcast ad that ran in late October 1996 in Arkansas, attacking Senate candidate Winston Bryant.