The House tax bill unleashes a dangerous avalanche of campaign cash
the Republican-controlled House has passed a tax bill that, should it become law, would unleash another tidal wave of change. It would permit churches, charities and foundations to engage in candidate-specific politicking and enable donors to reap tax breaks for political contributions for the first time.
.. What the House bill really amounts to is throwing open an entirely new channel for campaign money to politicize churches, charities and foundations.
.. What if these donors are tempted to give their money to a 501(c)3 organization that beckons with a tax deduction and no disclosure?
.. The change is unwanted by large numbers of tax-exempt groups, who fear the corrosive impact.
.. The change would also set a dangerous precedent, offering a federal subsidy — the tax deduction — for those making political contributions.
The churches, charities and foundations already enjoy the right to advocate for issues. There is no need to give these groups a new cash window and make them servants of special interests seeking to further warp the nation’s electoral politics.