Midterms Reopen Debate Over Dominance of Wealth in US Politics The 2026 midterms, expected to bring in $11.6 billion, reignited the debate over the dominance of money in American politics. The 50 largest donors gave $2.77 billion, with Musk alone contributing $446 million. More than $1 billion from unknown sources flowed into the races, and advertising in Michigan exceeded $850 million. The Brennan Center warns that the FEC lacks the quorum to oversee spending. Critics, citing Stieglitz, argue that American democracy is drifting from "one person, one vote" to "one dollar, one vote" as Citizens United dismantles restrictions.

Midterms Reopen Debate Over Dominance of Wealth in US Politics The 2026 midterms, expected to bring in $11.6 billion, reignited the debate over the dominance of money in American politics. The 50 largest donors gave $2.77 billion, with Musk alone contributing $446 million. More than $1 billion from unknown sources flowed into the races, and advertising in Michigan exceeded $850 million. The Brennan Center warns that the FEC lacks the quorum to oversee spending. Critics, citing Stieglitz, argue that American democracy is drifting from "one person, one vote" to "one dollar, one vote" as Citizens United dismantles restrictions.