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Abstract

Davis has raised numerous campaign finance issues: the precise definition of corruption in the electoral process; whether the government has an important interest in leveling the playing field of campaign finance to battle the perception that money can buy a seat in Congress; whether variations in contribution limits actually chill political speech by discouraging a candidate from self-financing; and, even if it does, whether the government interest is sufficient to allow raised limits. Part II of this note explores the history of campaign finance regulation through Congress and the courts, specifically focusing on self-financed candidates and the consideration of expenditure and contribution limits through the lens of the First Amendment. Part III will detail the background to Davis and analyze the District Court of the District of Columbia's decision to uphold the Millionaires' Amendment. Part IV will then analyze the issues the amendment presents in detail and provide insight into possible Court rulings and ramifications.

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