Special interest groups 'distort elections': Alan Simpson
(NEWSER) - In 2010, special interest groups and lobbyists in Washington alone gave nearly $300 million to political candidates—"more than the donations of 32 states combined," notes Alan Simpson, writing for Politico . And 2012 is sure to be worse, unless we do something about it—now. Special interest money compromises the US government and is "inextricably linked" to "our nation's fiscal future," writes Simpson, who co-chaired President Obama's deficit commission. By allowing special interest groups to "provide the lion's share of campaign funds," we also allow them to "exercise undue influence in tax and spending matters." More»
