Senator Scott Brown (R-MA) and his challenger Elizabeth Warren (full disclosure: my political crush) have signed an agreement intended to discourage campaign spending by groups and individuals from outside the respective campaigns such as Super PACs or other parties.
Apparently this was Browns idea, so good for him. Both candidates have received national attention and money has been pouring in from all over the country, but if successful, at least this agreement will make the campaigns accountable for the ads that come out before the election. Any group taking it upon themselves to advertise for their favorite candidate will be taking money out of the candidate’s pocket.
As an added bonus, Karl Rove hates it, so you know they’re on the right track.
I come down as “cautiously optimistic.” Anyone else?
I think “cautiously optimistic” is the best phrase. We’ll see how it works and if it gets any coverage. Then maybe other candidates can use it to shame their opponents into similar pledges in the future.
I see plenty of potential for shenanigans. What’s to stop someone from putting out an ad that’s ostensibly in favor of A, but actually just makes A look bad? I mean, such ads are always possible, but this would make them a double whammy.
If this pledge actually works, great, but I’m not holding my breath on it working.
I’m hopeful, since I think it will play well in Massachusetts. I’ve already given her some money, I guess I’m going to have to give her some more. I saw her speak at my son-in-laws law school graduation, and was quite impressed.
I suspect pacs will find ways to skirt the agreement. Running positive ads about Brown. Running negative ads about the CFPA without mentioning Warren directly.