Your money for a run? Campaign finance in America
4Digest
This episode of The Intelligence from The Economist delves into two key topics: the evolving nature of campaign finance in the US and the global phenomenon of skyscraper construction. Regarding campaign finance, the episode highlights the rise of small-dollar donors since 2010, challenging the traditional reliance on large donations from wealthy individuals and corporations. It examines the fundraising strategies of prominent figures like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, analyzing the impact of campaign spending on election outcomes. The episode then shifts its focus to the global trend of skyscraper construction, exploring the reasons behind this phenomenon. It examines the role of urban density, political ambitions, and the desire for bragging rights in driving the construction of super-tall buildings. The episode contrasts the skyscraper boom in China and the Middle East with the more cautious approach in Europe and the US, highlighting the cultural and historical factors that influence these decisions.
Outlines
Campaign Finance and Skyscrapers
This episode explores the changing landscape of campaign finance in the US, with the rise of small-dollar donors and the continued influence of big donors. It also delves into the global trend of skyscraper construction, highlighting the reasons behind this phenomenon, including urban density, political ambitions, and a desire for bragging rights.
Keywords
Small-dollar donors
Individuals who contribute relatively small amounts of money to political campaigns, often through online platforms. This trend has gained momentum in recent years, challenging the traditional reliance on large donations from wealthy individuals and corporations.
Super-tall buildings
Skyscrapers exceeding a certain height threshold, typically defined as 300 meters or more. These structures are becoming increasingly common in major cities around the world, driven by factors such as urban density, economic growth, and national pride.
Urban density
The concentration of people and buildings in a given area. High urban density can be a challenge for cities, but it can also offer advantages such as reduced commuting times, increased access to amenities, and more efficient use of land.
Political reasons
Factors related to political ambitions, power dynamics, and the pursuit of political goals. In the context of skyscraper construction, political reasons can include a desire to enhance a city's prestige, attract investment, or demonstrate a government's commitment to economic development.
Bragging rights
The sense of pride and accomplishment associated with achieving something notable or impressive, often in a competitive context. In the case of skyscrapers, bragging rights can be a significant motivator for cities and countries seeking to showcase their economic power and architectural prowess.
Q&A
How has campaign finance changed in the US since 2010?
Since the Citizens United Supreme Court decision in 2010, campaign finance has seen a dramatic shift, with the rise of small-dollar donors and the continued influence of big donors. This has led to a more complex and dynamic fundraising landscape.
What are the main reasons behind the global skyscraper boom?
The global skyscraper boom is driven by a combination of factors, including urban density, political ambitions, and a desire for bragging rights. Cities and countries are seeking to showcase their economic power, attract investment, and create iconic landmarks.
Show Notes
Kamala Harris has proven to be an enormous draw for campaign donors. But the size of a candidate’s war chest influences the outcome much less than it once did. Our correspondent meets asylum-seekers on a Dutch ship, investigating the new hard-right government’s tactics with migrants (09:39 ). And a survey of where the very scrapiest skyscrapers are going up (17:42 ).
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Table of contents
United States
