The voting records also reveal that politicians are extremely consistent in how they vote over their entire careers. Those who are the most conservative or liberal during their first terms are still ranked that way when they retire. Thus the young politician who does not yet receive money from a PAC, does not suddenly change when that organization starts supporting him. The data thus indicate that politicians vote according to their beliefs, and supporters are giving money to candidates who share their beliefs on important issues. A reputation for sticking to certain values is important to politicians.
Voters instead trust politicians who show a genuine passion for the issues.
Proponents of campaign-finance reform have managed to claim the mantle of dislodging the entrenched political establishment. Existing federal and state donation expenditure limits have entrenched incumbents, who can rely on voters greater familiarity with them as well as use their government resources to help them campaign and generate news coverage. It is very difficult for challengers to raise numerous small donations. Incumbents have an advantage here, as they have had years to put together long mailing lists as well as making a wide array of contacts. Allowing large donations would make it easier for newcomers to raise large sum from a few sources.