Next big case on campaign contribution limits likely depends on chief justice's vote
A pending Supreme Court case that seeks to eliminate aggregate limits on federal campaign contributions by individual donors is likely to depend on the vote of Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr.
Legal experts believe the limits are likely to be struck down unless Roberts votes to save them, USA Today reports. Currently the aggregate limit for donations to candidates, parties and political action committees is $123,200 over a two-year period.
On the one hand, Roberts’ opinions have noted the government interest in alleviating the corrupting influence of large contributions. On the other, he has written about the importance of First Amendment protections for political speech. “Which side Roberts will come down on,” the story says, “remains the $123,200 question.”
The case is McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission.
Prior coverage:
ABAJournal.com: “Will another campaign finance limit fall? SCOTUS to hear case challenging contribution caps”
