Another Way to Skin the Cat

At a social meeting the other night I got into conversation with an attorney who, as it turned out, has a connection with Chief Justice John Roberts.  We began talking politics, and when I told him about our efforts with Rootstrikers, he had some very interesting observations.

He is certain the Citizens United case will be reopened, albeit with a new set of facts and circumstances (otherwise the Court would not hear the case).  With the possibility of new Justices being appointed under the next administration (regardless of whose administration it is), the mix could change sufficiently that we could end up with different verdict. 

What new “facts and circumstances?”  The most likely approach to establishing those would be based on new legislation from Congress.  But what issue would Congress be willing to take up for new legislation?

A grassroots effort, we agreed, for full and open disclosure of campaign donations might provide the basis for new legislation.  Who would oppose it?  The corporations are not likely, but the unions might. Why?  The unions might not want their respective members to know to whom their unions are contributing.  Unlike corporations where shareholders could come and go (with little respect to political campaign finance involvement), union leaders hold their positions as a result of the vote of their membership.

Regardless, my major “take away” point from our discussion was yet one more way to energize and mobilize people to action.  In addition to a new Constitutional amendment and to candidate/electorate pledges, we should consider establishing a firm campaign for full disclosure.  If Congress senses a large level of heat on that issue, perhaps they would be more inclined to write new legislation.