Bush Reforms
I am not impressed by President Bush’s campaign reform proposals. If they are the measure of the man, he’s a lightweight.
He says that abolishing political action committees (PACs) will reduce the influence of money in politics (Part I, June 30). Does he believe it? I doubt it. He is totally cynical about PACs. Not long ago, he and other Republicans touted them for enhancing political participation. Now, they want to get rid of them because they give too much to Democrats.
Bush would abolish PACs when it isn’t necessary. Why not limit campaign spending and specify that within that limit candidates can raise not more than 20% from PACs? It would reduce their influence while respecting their right to participate. More importantly, it would keep campaign spending from spiraling out of control, as it does when there are no limits.
Bush has said that he agrees with the Republican Party. There should be no limits on spending. A candidate is justified in spending any amount in pursuit of public office. I am appalled that he has so little vision.
ERIC STEEL
Oakland
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