A rider in the omnibus spending bill bans the SEC from using any funds “to finalize, issue, or implement” rules “regarding the disclosure of political contributions, contributions to tax exempt organizations, or dues paid to trade associations.” But 94 Democrat Senators and Congressmen--but no Republicans--have petitioned the SEC to go forward with "discussing, planning, investigating, or developing plans or possible proposals for a rule or regulation relating to the disclosure of political contributions.” If that doesn't violate the letter of the omnibus bill, it certainly violates its spirit. But when has that stopped Democrats?
Once again, we see the intensely partisan nature of the campaign disclosure fight. So the next time some academic tries telling you that this debate is just about good public policy and sound disclosure rules, tell them to stuff it. It's about politics.
