Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to contributions and expenditures intended to affect elections.
Impact
If HJR121 is ratified, it would empower Congress and the states to not only implement and enforce regulations concerning electoral contributions but also to establish clear distinctions between individual and corporate contributions. This change could lead to a significant restructuring of election financing, where corporations might face prohibitions on spending money to influence elections, thus leveling the playing field for individual voters and grassroots candidates. This could enhance the democratic process by potentially reducing the influence of wealthy entities in elections, fostering a more equitable political landscape.
Summary
HJR121 proposes a significant amendment to the Constitution of the United States, aimed primarily at regulating the contributions and expenditures intended to affect elections. This resolution seeks to advance democratic self-government and political equality, establishing a framework that allows Congress and the states to impose reasonable limits on the financial activities of candidates and others involved in influencing elections. The proposed article explicitly states that these regulations should uphold the integrity of the electoral process, ensuring that it is not unduly influenced by financial contributions from corporations or entities created by law, distinguishing their treatment from that of natural persons.
Contention
While the intent of HJR121 is to fortify democratic principles, there is notable contention surrounding the implications it may have on freedom of speech, particularly regarding the rights of corporations. Critics may argue that regulating corporate contributions to political campaigns could restrict the broader interpretation of free speech as outlined in the First Amendment. Additionally, questions may arise about the practical effectiveness of such regulations and whether they will genuinely lead to the desired outcomes of reducing corruption and increasing civic engagement in elections. The debate will likely focus on finding a balance between regulating election funding while simultaneously respecting constitutional protections for speech and expression.
A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to contributions and expenditures intended to affect elections.
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the authority of Congress and the States to regulate contributions and expenditures intended to affect elections and to enact public financing systems for political campaigns.
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States providing that the rights extended by the Constitution are the rights of natural persons only.
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States providing that the rights protected and extended by the Constitution are the rights of natural persons only.
Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit persons who are not citizens, nationals, or lawful permanent residents of the United States from voting in elections.