Congressional Fundraising

    Politicians are particularly disliked in our society. They have a reputation for being deceiving and dishonest; greedy and corrupt. Extravagant amounts of funds are spent campaigning, which gives the impression of little commitment and too much fun. Congressional fundraising isn't as rewarding as some may assume-- the process has been described as tedious, demoralizing, and degrading.
    Politicians are removed from ornate legislative offices and placed into your quintessential cubicles complete with horrid gray fabric dividers and a call book. They may as well trade in their fancy coat jackets and slacks for a bright- orange jumpsuit. A supervisor is placed to monitor the politicians to keep them on task. Supervisors claim this process is completely necessary, as the congressional workers must "pay their dues" like imprisoned debtors. Nancy Pelosi, famed speaker within The U.S. House of Representatives, owed $800,000 in funds alone in the year of 2014; this is significantly more than the average American's annual income of $50,000 per year.
     So where does the money go? These funds are contributed to political campaigns, geared towards reform and popular sovereignty. The american people are not always fairly represented however. The money raised often goes towards personal agendas. For example, educational reform is promoted to gather funds. Once contributors have donated, their voices may or may not be heard. It is indeed quite a corrupt system... some may even call it a necessary evil. In addition, low- income taxpayers may be unable to donate and will therefore be denied a say in their state or federal legislature.
    Besides having a partial say in social reform, contributors receive tax exemptions. Giving to politicians is quite the gamble; it is not uncommon to find politicians fundraising at their own personal celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, and even pop concerts.
     The painful task takes up approximately 25- 50% of their time. This does not necessarily mean politicians just want your money-- it is part of the job description. Congressman Steve Israel spoke of the horrors. He plans on retiring and claims that he "won't waster any more time fundraising." He confessed to having attended over 1,600 fundraising events throughout his career. There is nothing fulfilling about begging for funds.
     In 2014 alone politicians raised approximately $1.7 billion dollars. Benefits such as tax- cuts or having a say in the state or federal legislature entices donors. Long hours, numerous phone calls, and thousands of fundraisers all help bring together money that brings these campaigns (and over personal affairs) to life. It is clear to see we have come a long way from the socialist ideals of reformers such as Stalin or Sir Thomas More. More's Utopia (1516) promoted the idea of eliminating private property and establishing an 'even playing field' so to speak. This included replacing the spoils system, corrupting the government with unfit associates, and incorporating wise leaders to rule society. Today, the environment we live in is hardly fair-- if you are poor, you will remain poor and be voiceless. If you are rich, you have power. The wealthy will receive benefits in addition to promoting their own agendas. Politicians gain titles unrightfully however their job description is not exactly what you may think-- it can be dehumanizing, humiliating and dreadful. None the less they are only practicing the necessary evils of our political system.