by Edmund G. Brown Jr.

About the author: Edmund G. (Jerry) Brown Jr. served as governor of California from 1975 to 1983 and was a presidential candidate in 1992. Brown hosts a radio talk show in Berkeley, California.

In May 1993, President Bill Clinton unveiled his plan to change corrupt campaign practices. The President calls his proposal the “most comprehensive reform of the political system in the history of this country.” I call this a scam. If every line of the President’s legislation were adopted tomorrow, the same corruption in Washington would continue—at conveniently reduced prices. The checks that buy the votes would still be signed by those who sign them now. Corporate executives and the wealthy would still call the tune.

Brown’s Fundraising

Igrew up in politics. My father...