Reply #27: Rezko Trial Highlights Need for Campaign Finance Reform

[tbyg52]

New York lost its governor to scandal; Illinois may not be far behind. The ongoing prosecution of Illinois real estate developer Antoin "Tony" Rezko, as the result of the Justice Department's Operation Board Game investigation, has been a source of much drama. But anyone who is familiar with Illinois's political contributions laws knows there's more to the scandal than meets the eye. The problem is not just what was allegedly illegal; the bigger issue is what is legal in Illinois.

All the hype aside, the Rezko scandal should bring into focus the clear failings of Illinois's campaign finance laws. As I pointed out in testimony submitted to the state legislature last year, Illinois is one of only three states that lacks any type of campaign contribution limits. This gives big donors the potential to buy an election by writing a single hefty check. Illinois also lacks pay-to-play restrictions which would curtail contributions from those seeking contracts with or permits from the state.

More:
http://www.alternet.org/rights/80588/