The New Fat Cats: Members of Congress As Political Benefactors

At a time when campaign finance is already under scrutiny, the advent of these member or leadership PACs is perceived by many as cause for acute concern. There are those who suspect that trickery or misrepresentations characterizes the relationship between member PACs and those who habitually contribute to them. Others fear that member PACs siphon money from the party campaign committees, further weakening the parties and decreasing political competition by providing additional support to incumbents. Finally, some fear that these new PACs will result in excessive involvement by outsiders in the affairs of Congress. After an intensive review of these concerns and other problematic issues surrounding PACs and public perception, Ross Baker has brought together an insightful and truthful look at today's fat cats. Baker explores the dangers that are real and should concern the public with Political Action Committees and their involvement with members of Congress. Consequently, Baker also begins to dismiss some of the publics perceived thoughts surrounding the buying and selling of votes on Capital Hill, calling it the publics disillusionment with the system.