OpenSecrets.org is your nonpartisan guide to money’s influence on U.S. elections and public policy. Whether you’re a voter, journalist, activist, student or interested citizen, use our free site to shine light on your government. Count cash and make change.
Subscribe to the Capital Eye blog feed
Tomorrow is Independence Day, the time to commemorate the United States's successful revolt against Britain, establishing our own self-reliant government. Well, sort of. While our politicians are no longer answering to the redcoats, they've become awfully beholden to the greenbacks. According to the Center for Responsive Politics, 36 current members of Congress have collected at least 20 percent of their contributions from a single industry, setting up a scheme of dependence and perhaps the expectation of a tit-for-tat.... (Continue)
Considering how Americans celebrate their independence and patriotism with fireworks and sparklers, it's no surprise that our country's politicians often buy fireworks for events on the campaign trail. This is hardly a one-way street, however, as the fireworks industry invests in lawmakers through campaign contributions and lobbying efforts, as well. ... (Continue)