Actually, if I'm not mistaken, there is disclosure of PAC contributions due to their tax exempt status. But you're right in that such disclosures are not instantaneous.
But since such contributions by individuals to such advocacy groups is not illegal, nor limited by government regulations due to 1st amendment considerations, having instaneous disclosure would be irrelevant.
Again I'll state, in case you might have misunderstood my views on the issue, I think there is every reason that direct contributions made by individuals to a candidates campaign fund should be limited. That's a one to one transaction that could be exploited as an attempt to purchase influence were the amounts excessive in nature (millions of dollars from one contributor).
But I do not believe that individual contributions made to an advocacy group can be legally restricted without endangering EVERYONE'S 1st amendment rights to donate money to whatever cause they choose. If you can restrict money being received by, for example, a pro-gun lobbying group that advocates and buys commercial time for advertising decreased restrictions on weapons ownership, then you have a case for restricting contributions to anti-gun lobbyists.
The same thing case could be made for restricting pro-life and pro-abortion advocacy groups.
An advocacy group buying commercial time to advertise for a particular candidate that best represents their political or ideological views. Any attempt to impede such activities will thrust us across a narrow line that protects our ability to express our opinions.
Regards,
Ron |
