Campaign Finance Concepts and Issues

The video explores the Watergate scandal, starting with the break-in at the Democratic National Headquarters and the subsequent investigation that revealed illegal campaign contributions to Nixon's re-election. It discusses the resulting campaign finance reforms and the loopholes that emerged, leading to the rise of soft money and the Citizens United ruling, which allowed unlimited corporate contributions, significantly impacting modern U.S. elections.

What event marked the beginning of the Watergate scandal?

• The approval of the McCain-Feingold Act

• The arrest of five men at the Democratic National Headquarters

• The discovery of secret donations

• The resignation of President Nixon

What was the main concern of the Nixon administration right after the Watergate break-in?

• The public's reaction to the scandal

• The involvement of foreign governments

• The connection between campaign contributions and one of the burglars

• The potential impeachment of Nixon

What did the Federal Campaign Act of 1974 aim to achieve?

• Abolish all campaign finance laws

• Increase the amount of money individuals could donate

• Allow corporate contributions to political campaigns

• Limit the influence of money in politics

What is 'soft money' in the context of campaign finance?

• Money donated by foreign entities

• Money used for personal expenses of politicians

• Money raised in any amount for political parties

• Money donated directly to candidates

Who was the first to capitalize on soft money during a presidential campaign?

• Michael Dukakis

• John McCain

• Bill Clinton

• Richard Nixon

What was the primary goal of the McCain-Feingold Act?

• Abolish all campaign finance laws

• Outlaw huge unlimited contributions from business and unions

• Allow foreign donations

• Increase corporate contributions

What was the Supreme Court's ruling in the Citizens United case?

• Corporations and unions cannot donate to political campaigns

• Campaign spending limits on corporations and unions are unconstitutional

• Individuals cannot donate more than $1,000

• Foreign entities can donate to U.S. elections

What is 'dark money' in political campaigns?

• Money donated by foreign governments

• Money from donors who do not have to disclose their identity

• Money used for illegal activities

• Money donated directly to candidates

What is the main criticism of the influence of super PACs in politics?

• They do not disclose their donors

• They have too much influence on elections

• They only support one political party

• They are illegal

What is the impact of money being considered free speech in politics?

• It reduces the influence of corporations

• It makes elections more fair

• It allows the wealthiest individuals to have the most influence

• It limits the amount of money in politics