Money the winner, not democracy

Electoral funding from the taxpayers was originally designed to provide the opportunity for individuals and organisations to compete equally in the democratic process.

But, it is obvious that in the recent federal election, this ideal has been subverted by millionaires.

In the debate on the Central Coast about who won the seats, it is obvious that Mr Singleton used his money to bankroll two independents and to direct their preferences to the two Liberal candidates away from the Labor candidates.

Money was the winner, not democracy.

Mr Murdoch has used his media influence in many parts of the country to do all in his power to bring about a Liberal party victory.

Mr Palmer used his money to get himself elected to the House of Representatives and to have a member of his party elected to the Senate.

The trend towards financial advantage in our democracy is of significant concern and is symptomatic of United States politics, where millionaires or those backed by millionaires determine the futures of the less fortunate in society.

Email, 19 Nov 2013

John Hale, Woy Woy