| Front Page NOTE from: Foreign Contributions and the Supreme's by Michael Collins Time for a Second Look at Fox An unanticipated outcome of Citizens United v. FEC appeal may occur if the court upholds the Citizens United v. FEC decision. A simple review of McCain-Feingold and related election law would lead a reasonable person to conclude that Fox News engages in nonstop electioneering communications which have the primary goal of tearing down various political figures and make them seem unsuitable for anyone's vote. These Fox News broadcasts are, by definition, from the general treasury funds of the Fox News parent, News Corporation. Electioneering communications are the essence of the Fox News product. Organizing information for Tea Bagger meetings and the constant attacks on President Obama and other key political figures are a routine part of the Fox News Network broadcasts. Does any reasonable person doubt that these broadcasts fit McCain-Feingold's definition of electioneering communications? 'electioneering communication' means any broadcast, cable, or satellite communication which promotes or supports a candidate for that office, or attacks or opposes a candidate for that office (regardless of whether the communication expressly advocates a vote for or against a candidate) and which also is suggestive of no plausible meaning other than an exhortation to vote for or against a specific candidate. Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002, Sec. 201 (McCain-Feingold) The Fox News Network offers up nonstop electioneering communications, day in and day out. 365 days a year. If a fair hearing occurred on the claim that Fox had to comply with McCain-Feingold's restrictions on direct corporate funding for campaigns and disclosure and broadcast restrictions, Fox would have little left but sports and celebrity gossip. ************* |