riconos

In today's world of politics we know the intrinsic link between the big corporations and their far reaching hand into government policy. Arguably the US presidency is won by which campaign had the biggest bank balance to accompany it with. Or maybe this is not the case. Either way, how long have corporations and lobbyists dictated who becomes the next US President, or is this simply a 'myth' based on conspirist theories and cynics?

Panthera tigris altaica

Hi riconos. Discussing modern politics isn't allowed.

riconos

Panthera tigris altaica, the question posed is asking what the relationship between US government and big business has been historically; maybe I did not phrase my question well enough.

diddyriddick

Then perhaps you can provide some examples of how big business has (or has not) historically affected elections-prior to 1991, please. To be clear, Panthera is right. Because contemporary politics creates a great deal of rancor and little real understanding of history, we have chosen to eliminate it from historum. Keep it in mind.

riconos

William McKinley in 1896; blatent use of corporate influence and money. By 1925 the Federal Corrupt Practices Act had to be passed because it was such a joke. The Watergate scandal in the 1970's showed how big business was being used to influence US presidency. And of course the relentless TV, radio and (more recently) internet campaigns funded by corporations to favour a particular candidate. To mention but a few.

RoryOMore

Just a note to ask consideration that if corporations are restricted, labor unions should be restricted to the same degree, including non-cash (e.g., phone bank) donations.

Rongo

And here I think you've answered your own question. It's the normal ebb and flow of American politics. Corporations certainly do from time to time gain too much influence, but then the pendulum swings in the other direction.

Ultimately it's the American people who have the power, although sadly we sometimes are too consumed with our own personal lives to wield it.

unclefred

First, What did Watergate have to do with the influence of big corporate business?

Secondly, perhaps Eisenhower's warning about the military-industrial complex is an example that has proven the warning out.

Virgil

Perhaps they were planting bugs because they wanted stock tips.

unclefred

Not a bad idea Virgil!