As I write this, we are anxiously awaiting word from the US Supreme Court on whether or not they will hear our challenge of McCain-Fiengold disclosure laws. Our question is: Do we lose our First Amendment right of free speech just because an election is within 90 days. Should the calendar trump free speech? (See, see how I got “trump” in there? I’m sure I’m the only guy making that joke.)
The Wall Street Journal Editorial page has urged SCOTUS to take the case, saying, “Donor disclosure has become a weapon of political intimidation.” They are right, and their editorial is well worth the read.
If we are successful, there could be massive ramifications for free speech and donor privacy, which is a cornerstone of our republic. Win or lose, we wouldn’t be in this great fight without our friends at the Center for Competitive Politics who are representing us.
There’s a good chance we’ll know on Monday. If it’s good news, we’ll let you know right away.
In a spectacular twist of karma, one of the lawyers working on our case for the Center for Competitive Politics is a graduate of our Future Leaders Program. Former intern Tyler Martinez was hardened by our political incorrectness, inappropriate humor, occasional workday drinking, and our fearless commitment to take on the big fights. It’s just another example of how our long-term efforts pay off.
Senior Education Policy Analyst Ross Izard was featured this week in The Hill, one of Washington’s top news sites, discussing the hypocrisy of the Left (surprise!) regarding their treatment of Betsy DeVos vs. Elizabeth Warren. Check out the full article here and stay tuned for weekly articles featuring your other freedom fighters.
Often enough I have been approached by friends and opponents of the Institute asking me to break down the reasons why systems like subsidies and welfare never seem to work as intended. Well, as it turns out, I’m not the only one who has noticed a certain trend. Take one minute and watch Mike McCarty, one of our esteemed Board of Trustees, describing his “lightbulb moment” that I’m sure others have had too.
Transportation is the name of the taxation game this legislative season. Why? Because our roads suck and the State knows it. Plus, it sounds good in a tax slogan. Read II’s Randall O’Toole in his latest article on why Colorado transit doesn’t need state funding.
Well, the verdict is in, and the people have spoken. A whopping 43% of voters in last week’s poll do not believe that I could pull off a Trump toupee. It seems, in some instances, bald really is better.
Think Freedom,
Jon Caldara
