Discuss the rapid increase in campaign costs in Texas, and describe the implications of the high costs for contemporary campaigns. How have PACs influenced elections in recent years, and what are the problems associated with them?
What will be an ideal response?
Answer: An ideal response will:
1. Identify reasons for increasing campaign costs, including increased use of electronic media, a growing population, increased reliance on professionals, and the proliferation of PACs.
2. Explain that high campaign costs can discourage potential candidates and have been identified as a barrier to minorities.
3. Define PACs and explain their relationship to interest groups.
4. Identify interests that are more represented in terms of PAC contributions, primarily business interests.
5. Explain that PACs typically indicate access to officials as the primary aim in providing contributions.
6. Explain potential concerns about public officials being "bought" by special interest groups and public policy being influenced by campaign contributions.
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