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It isn't at all surprising that many of those involved in the business of politics object strongly to any effort to place caps on the amount of money that can be given to a candidate for public office in Utah.
Corporate and special interest money, after all, is their lifeline.
Utah is one of only a handful of states that doesn't place a limit on the amount of money a candidate can be given. That could change, however, if the state would adopt the timely recommendation of the Governor's Commission on Strengthening Utah.
A majority of commission members say individual and corporate contributions should be limited to $4,000 per election cycle for statewide races, and $2,000 for legislative contests.
Needless to say, lawmakers are balking. Some contend it would limit free speech. Others say it would put challengers at a disadvantage. Still others ask, what's the problem? Is the system really broken?
In KSL's view, it all boils down to the fundamental issue of access and influence. It is hard to imagine a corporation or individual giving large sums without expecting something in return.
KSL welcomes the recommendation of the Governor's Commission. Although non-binding, we urge them to hold firm when the issue comes up for another vote in October.
