Regaining Confidence: Protecting the Sanctity of Elections Without Burdening Speech

Abstract:     
This article outlines judicial opinions on campaign expenditure and contribution limits by reviewing specific state and federal laws subject to constitutional challenge. It delves deeper into the purpose of such limits through an empirical lens and ends by offering legislative recommendations that protect against campaign finance corruption without burdening the First Amendment. The author offers concluding remarks as to why a constitutional amendment limiting free speech related to independent expenditures may seem necessary but could actually do more harm than good.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 31

Keywords: Citizens United, contribution limits, expenditure limits, disclosures, campaign finance, money in politics, Armin Jezari

working papers series