Although the mandatory disclosure of state ballot-initiative contributors is supposed to improve democracy by making voters better informed, poll data suggest that it has a negligible or even harmful effect on the democratic process. Although voters seem to like the idea of disclosure for others, their support weakens when it involves themselves, owing to privacy concerns and fears of negative repercussions, particularly in the workplace.

Dick M. Carpenter II is professor emeritus of leadership, research, and foundations at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
DemocracyElections and Election LawGovernment and PoliticsPhilosophy and Religion
Other Independent Review articles by Dick M. Carpenter II
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