In Response to: Quality Over Showboating

The following commentary is in response to John Newhouse's editorial Quality Over Showboating.

First off, I would have to agree with you that campaign methods do not always promote supporting a candidate on the correct basis. I feel that campaigns should be based on the qualities of candidates and the reasonable actions that they can achieve while in office. The US government is not set up so that one person can go in and make a dramatic change. Instead, it is set up so that a person can lobby for certain outcomes and gain support for them. With that said, banter and name-calling grabs headlines and sensationalizes a situation or characterization of a candidate.  Those candidates who make the headlines under a popular stance have a better chance to win an election; those making headlines under an unpopular stance have a better chance to lose an election. This practice has occurred throughout our history.  It is important to note that just because it has become standard practice does not mean that it should be a primary focus of campaigns. The party system by its very nature creates a comparison between candidates and, I feel, splits the country on opposing sides that most people do not understand or follow. As long as we continue to employ single-member districts and not proportional representation the current tactics used in elections will continue and unfortunately, the focus and revenues raised won’t be on solving the problems of our time. We know that finances have and potentially always will be an issue with politics. Supporters want their candidate to win so they can get favorable legislation passed. The easiest way to ensure victory is through financial support. Fortunately, the Federal Elections Commission was established to monitor spending in federal campaigns. This helps to regulate money that is coming in from corporations, lobbyist groups, political action committees, individuals, and political parties. Although, each donor has a limit to what they can contribute to a candidate there is no limit on the number of donors who can contribute. This in turn, leaves the field wide open on the amount of money a candidate can raise for their campaign. So bottom line, find a candidate worthy of supporting and send in your check. This seems like a poor way to be represented but sadly, in the current system, it may be the best way to be heard.