Money Counts: How Dollars Dominate Illinois Politics and What We Can Do About It

To many, Illinois is a poster child for campaign finance reform. Yet the state has a history of keeping this issue off the public agenda in order to retain the advantages that the free flow of money provides for incumbent public officials and private interests with money. Redfield (University of Illinois-Springfield) details 14 common-sense, achievable ideas for leveling the state's playing field. It shows who gives to politicians and judges, how much they give, and why, and examines consequences ranging from "dumb laws" and special legislation to corruption such as the bribes-for-licenses scandals. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)