How the Federal Election Commission Went From Deadlock to Deregulation

The Federal Election Commission, once plagued by deadlock and dysfunction, has undergone a significant transformation in recent times. A new bloc of three Republicans and one Democrat has emerged, reshaping the landscape of campaign finance regulations in America. This shift has led to the rollback of limits on how money is raised and spent by politicians, political parties, and super PACs.

The swift unraveling of longstanding restraints has raised concerns among reform groups while delighting conservatives who have long sought to loosen restrictions. The recent decisions made by the commission are considered some of the most substantial regulatory revisions since the enactment of the McCain-Feingold Act two decades ago.

Commissioner Dara Lindenbaum, a Democrat, has played a pivotal role in this shift by aligning with her Republican colleagues on key votes. This unexpected alliance has led to a series of decisions that have allowed for greater coordination between super PACs and campaigns, raised limits on fundraising for state-level ballot measures, and relaxed rules on certain types of communications.

The impact of these decisions has been met with mixed reactions, with some praising the practical applications of campaign finance law that Commissioner Lindenbaum brings to the table, while others express concerns about the potential consequences of deregulation.

As the commission continues to make significant changes to campaign finance regulations, the implications of these decisions are being closely monitored by both Democrats and Republicans. With Commissioner Lindenbaum’s term extending until 2027, the future of campaign finance law remains uncertain.

The evolving landscape of money in American politics highlights the ongoing debate between those who advocate for stricter regulations to curb the influence of money and those who prioritize practical applications of the law to achieve their political goals.