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Do persons with more money have greater influence over legislators (lawmakers) than those with less money?

A. Yes, and this is unavoidable in a society like ours.

B. Yes, but steps should be taken to reform the lobbying and campaign finance systems.

C. No, money does not significantly influence legislators.

D. No, and any influence is justifiable in a democratic society.

Select the option that best represents your view on the influence of money on legislators and whether reforms are necessary in the lobbying and campaign finance systems.

User Toni Rmc
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Money has significant influence over legislators, as wealthy individuals and large corporations can sway policy decisions through political donations and lobbying. Option B, which suggests reforms are necessary in the lobbying and campaign finance systems, best aligns with the detailed information on how money currently interacts with politics.

Step-by-step explanation:

The influence of money on legislators is a significant concern in democratic societies. Based on the information provided, those with more money have a disproportionate influence over lawmakers due to their ability to contribute to political campaigns, hire lobbyists, and thus sway policy decisions that favor their interests. This raises questions about the fairness and representativeness of the political process.

Option B seems to align closest with my view, which posits that while money does have a significant influence over legislators, steps should be taken to reform lobbying and campaign finance systems to create a fairer society. Campaign finance reform legislation and the subsequent Supreme Court decisions, such as Citizen's United versus the Federal Election Commission, have shaped the current state of campaign contributions and free speech in politics.

Relevant laws have made efforts to increase transparency and reduce the 'good ol' boys' system of lobbying. However, there remains a disparity in political engagement tied to socioeconomic status with wealth being a strong determinant of political influence. Free speech provides alternative channels for influence, but the power of money in politics remains evident, and further reforms are suggested by many to address the disproportionate influence of the wealthy and large corporations over the political process.

User Sufian
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