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Listening Comprehension Questions 1) How much money is President Bush's campaign expected to raise this year? $200 million.2) Why does Mary Alice McClarty contribute to political campaigns? She wants to counteract the large donations given by organizations, wealthy individuals, and corporations.3) What two things does Larry Noble of the Center for Responsive Politics urge citizens to do in order to make elections more democratic? He wants citizens to vote and to watch elected officials. Critical Thinking Questions 1) Why does Bill Silvera object to those who don't donate money to political campaigns? They often have the ability to do so and they complain about public policy without having attempted to use their money to influence it.2) How does Hollywood's version of politics differ from actual politics when it comes to financial contributions? Hollywood portrays money as a source of corruption in politics, suggesting that our elected officials have often sold their votes to those who can pay for them. In reality, however, there is no alternative to political fundraising; elections cannot happen without money.3) Some people argue that fundraising hinders democracy in America, while others say that it involves more people in the democratic process. Which argument do you find more convincing and why? Hinders democracy: Only those with wealth have a say in our government Involves more people: Limits on donations from individuals ensure that nobody's "say" is outrageously more significant; even small donations can make a difference when money is pooled. Research Challenges 1) Find out what you can about the role of political action committees and "soft money" in American elections. What debates surround their presence? Key Terms and Topics • Fundraiser Fundraiser — Someone who raises money for a candidate or a cause
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