WKU professor discusses why money dominates political campaigns

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – From commercials to text messages to letters sent to your home, politicians are always looking for more money for their campaigns.

But this year is expected to be the most expensive political season in American history. However, much has changed over time, and practices that were once considered inferior to a candidate are now socially expected.

News 40 spoke with a WKU professor who attributed the candidates’ technology and campaign methods to why election season dollars have increased over the years.

“Campaigns have changed in many ways over time. First, campaigns have become much more national than before, and that is more expensive. “Back then, you know, in the early stages of American history, presidents didn’t campaign at all, or it was considered impolite to campaign,” said political science professor Dr. Jeff Budziak.

Budziak says inventions like radio and television play an important role in why operations have become so expensive. He also says we may continue to see a surge in campaign spending because of America’s relaxed rules on political donations.