CampaignFinance

Are you a bit confused about super PACS, those new political operations that have somehow taken over the U.S. election process? Well, in the spirit of Schoolhouse Rocks, ProPublica brings you "Oh, Super PACs," a 1970s-style video that answer all your questions.

Pundits have lately focused on the growth and influence of super PACs -- and the power of the mega-rich men who fund them -- but the current business-sponsored presidential contest isn't unusual: Come along as we review the long and rich tradition of election-buying in American history.

Stephen Colbert's "super" PAC has raised a staggering $1 million. Political action committees were required to submit their financial reports to the Federal Election Commission on Tuesday. Colbert disclosed that as of Monday, his Americans for a Better Tomorrow PAC has raised more than $1.02 million.

Election season is coming, and politicians across the spectrum are already hunting for campaigns contributions. But with the vast majority of political donations coming from lobbies, corporations, and the wealthy, does it make sense for average taxpayers to contribute?

People enraged by the status quo are occupying America's public spaces. Most agree that companies wield too much influence in government -- and that we need to change that. The way to do so is to limit corporate donations to politicians -- it's not even their money to give.

Skirting campaign finance laws, News Corp. chairman Rupert Murdoch, has found an entirely legal way to put millions of dollars directly into the bank accounts of leading Republican candidates like Mike Huckabee and Sarah Palin. He hires them.

We all know that times are hard, but rising politicians are benefiting from increased campaign contributions despite the current recession. According to the Washington Independent, the first quarter fundraising for the ten closest incumbent house races have increased by 18%, and 39% for the five...