New campaign contributor finds we can’t afford our democracy

Considering that I am still a newbie at this, I have parted with a noticeable amount of cash. And I have discovered just what a black hole our electoral system is.

Until this year, I have been an observer of politics rather than an active participant. I have written a few letters to the editor, expressed my views in conversation and been critical of those who have, in my estimation, failed the public trust by their actions.

But as 2020 emerged, I felt a new compunction to be more personally involved and chose to make my first- ever political contribution, to Pete Buttigieg. I gave on a regular basis, adding to the $100 million or so that was ultimately raised. For that amount, he was able to get a new message into the political arena, but ultimately it was money that went for a lost cause.

Yet I realized that in order to ensure the outcome that I desired, I was going to have to be much more proactive in this campaign, and that meant more money, more contributions. At the present time I am financially supporting the Biden-Harris ticket, six Senate candidates and a few House candidates. Considering that I am still a newbie at this, I have parted with a noticeable amount of cash.

And I have discovered just what a black hole our electoral system is. No matter how often I contribute, I can be certain that within 24 hours, sometimes less, another appeal will appear.

Sometimes they pop up multiple times a day: “Only 24 hours to reach our goal.” “Can I ask for just $ 5?” “Saturday is the end of the week/ month/reporting period.”

“Did you hear what my opponent just said?”

It is endless and exhausting — and often irritating as well. The messages rarely have any policy positions, philosophical insights or plans to be implemented. It is just about money, full stop. I assume that those with alternate positions are being regularly hammered as well, as the process is an equal opportunity menace.

Across the board, we are talking a huge pile of cash. Estimates of the cost of the presidential and congressional campaigns in 2016 has been pegged at over $6.5 billion with this year’s total sure to top that number. Add in the cost of local and state elections, propositions and other election-related causes and the numbers are staggering. In a nation unable (more like unwilling) to provide adequate child care, medical coverage or school funding, that amount, much of it eventually funding lost causes, could go a long way toward plugging the financial holes that exist in our society.

Beyond the waste, the daunting reality of incessant fundraising doubtless dissuades many capable individuals from even considering elective office. This deprives us of talent that could be of benefit to us all, making the ultimate price even more costly. Worthy national goals are thwarted by the expense of running for office, and once elected, our representatives find that the cash necessary to enact change has been eaten by the electoral process itself.

We must find a better way, a way that promotes integrity, thoughtful consideration and a system that supports discussion and merit over fundraising. Unless changes are made, the spiral will destroy us, as well as our desire for good governance. Cynics have said America has the best government money can buy. We can no longer afford it.