When you put a bunch of gold on one side of a beam scale and not so much on the other, the scale tilts in that direction, letting you know which side weighs more. The same principle is being practiced in American government. Although the foundation of the American democracy is based on equal voice of the people, the influence of money shifts and controls the political decisions made in this country.

A large problem has begun to arise in this nation. The problem is being able to pass smart and effective legislations that benefit the majority of people in the United States. We have developed a corporatocracy, which happens when large corporations use their money and power to control politics. One way they do this is by funding political campaigns of candidates who support ideas that are in their best interest. Therefore, the politicians who are for the people have a smaller chance to get into office, and those elected are motivated toward Big Business goals. The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act was passed in 2002 to prevent advertisements for political candidates from being paid for by corporations. However, in 2010 the decision of Citizens United v Federal Election Commission overturned this decision, noting that it was denying corporations the first amendment. Corporations are businesses, not citizens, so should the amendments apply in this case? Those political ads on television, signs, and billboards that take the country by storm before elections are more-often-than-not funded by large corporations like Wal-Mart, Exxon, Chevron, Pfizer, and others. They have major persuasion on the American people who are already constantly manipulated by media; this influence in turn gives more power to the corporations than the one vote to which every citizen is entitled. In the final analysis, the Constitution begins with “We the people...” not “We the corporations...” and the decisions made within American government should reflect that.

Corporate funding is not the only financial problem influencing United States politicians. They are constantly making decisions based on what will get them reelected instead of what is best for the country. Because it is their source of income, politicians do not want to lose their spot in office. However, there needs to be a shift in mindset to do the right thing regardless of personal consequences. John Adams’, the second president of the United States, made the decision to avoid full blown war with France in 1798 because he knew America was in no position to enter in another war, despite popular support; that is the kind of decision our country’s leaders need to be making. Another example is when the Jefferson administration moved ahead with the Louisiana Purchase, even though it went against their belief in a strict interpretation of the Constitution; Thomas Jefferson and congress knew it was good for the country. A system needs to be created and set in place to enforce the real reason politicians are at work, and this could be through a short term limit, lower salary, and/or limited benefits which would help limit the corruption in government caused by greed for money. Also something as drastic as the elimination of a large party system might be needed. This would help end outside pressures on politicians who should focus more on what is best for the country instead of party philosophy. To fix the growing financial influence in American government, the shift in focus from job to country needs to happen.

The American government is catering more and more to the advantaged private sector instead of the wants and needs of the majority public. It is a case of the few over the many as a result of greed and power. As Lincoln said, our government should be “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” It is our job as American citizens to reduce the power of the wealthy on government decisions and exert the power given to us in the Constitution.