Ways in which elections have been reformed 5.1

Question 1

McCain–Feingold Act (2002)

Answer 1

• Also known as the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act.
• Introduced by Senators John McCain and Russell Feingold.

Question 2

527 Groups (organisation)

Answer 2

• Emerged in the 2004 election.
• Named after the section of the US tax code.
• Examples include America Coming Together and Swift Boat Veterans for Truth.
• Raised and spent millions, mostly from a few super-rich donors.

Question 3

Key Provisions of the McCain–Feingold Act

Answer 3

• National party committees banned from raising or spending ‘soft money’.
• Labour unions and corporations forbidden from directly funding issue advertisements.
• Prohibited union and corporate money for ads mentioning federal candidates within 60 days of a general election or 30 days of a primary.

Question 4

Contribution Limits

Answer 4

• Individual limits on contributions to candidates or committees set at $2,300 (2007/08), adjusted for inflation in odd-numbered years.
• Contributions from foreign nationals banned.

Question 5

‘Stand By Your Ad’ Provision

Answer 5

• All campaign advertisements must include a verbal endorsement by the candidate.

Question 6

Individual Contribution Limits for 2019–20 Federal Election Cycle

Answer 6

• Candidate Committee: $2,800 per election.
• Political Action Committee (PAC): $5,000 per year.
• State/District/Local Party Committee: $10,000 per year (combined).
• National Party Committee: $35,500 per year.

Question 7

6 ways in which the election system has shown some reform

Answer 7

• McCain–Feingold Act (2002)
• 527 Groups
• Key Provisions of the McCain–Feingold Act
• Contribution Limits
• ‘Stand By Your Ad’ Provision
• Individual Contribution Limits for 2019–20 Federal Election Cycle