Chronicle poll results: Politicians accepting large donations from out-of-state funders
We asked our readers if they are concerned about local politicians accepting large donations from out-of-state funders. Here's what they said.
Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an online poll the following question: Are you concerned about local politicians accepting large donations from out-of-state funders? Of the 179 people who responded, 85% said yes and 15% said no. Comments were submitted by 57 people. A few follow.
If they’re just supporting democracy over authoritarianism, no. If they’re looking for quid pro quos, yes.
Local politicians should make sure they put their own constituents first, no matter where their campaign donations come from.
There used to be a saying: “All politics is local.” Now it’s all about political influence and corporate interests.
The Citizens United decision turning corporations into people and cash into speech has corrupted our politics and government.
One of the oldest games known to humankind: the buying of political favors! A few words come to mind: sleazy, smarmy, downright disgusting.
I am concerned, especially when one candidate in particular accepts more money from outside, and was very vocal about outside AIPAC money. Hypocrite.
It pressures politicians toward loyalties other than those they were elected to represent.
I’m not concerned so long as there is transparency and open justification/explanation about reasons why local politicians are receiving that kind of funding from donors and entities.
I think all moneys donated to an elected individual should come from the state they live in, period.
I am especially concerned if the politician is a Jew-hater.
The very real possibility that foreigners can affect our local Pennsylvania elections is quite disturbing. Why should “carpetbagging” outsiders unfamiliar with (or even intentionally contrary to) the interests of me and my pro-Democracy neighbors be allowed to foist any fascist, socialist, communist, sharia law, or other anti-America beliefs upon my representative/district/voting area?
I’m more concerned about foreign donors and all large donors, especially super PACs. I have given small ($50 or less) to candidates in other states, wanting to help Democrats win the House and Senate. That’s OK. But the large contributions are worrisome.
Why should I care what state the donation comes from? PJC
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