How Ohio’s Election Laws and State Central Committees Shape Ohio’s Economy
A focus on "big business" by Ohio State is a direct consequences of poorly enforced campaign finance laws and State Parties lacking ethics and morals. This is why small businesses struggle.
In the intricate fabric of economic development, Ohio stands at a pivotal crossroads, where the principles of virtue and legislative integrity converge. As we ponder the sage words of John Adams, who asserted that "Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other," the profound connection between the virtues of the people and the ethical and legislative underpinnings that regulate Ohio’s political party’s becomes glaringly apparent, serving as the ultimate hurdle to Ohio's pursuit of prosperity.
Biblical wisdom, too, resonates with the importance of morality in governance. Proverbs 29:2 states, "When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan." Ohio's economic future hinges on the righteousness of its governance, echoing the sentiment expressed by John Adams.
Yet, a stark reality unfolds as we examine the impact of the prevailing pay-to-play system in Ohio politics. This framework, fostering undue influence from powerful vested interests (big business), establishes an environment where the interests of big businesses prevail at the expense of the broader populace. The insidious practice of State Central Committee leadership not addressing poor accounting practices and willfully circumventing Ohio’s contribution limits, is reminiscent of musical chairs with donors funds laundering through multiple accounts and contribution types, continues unabated, perpetuated by vague accounting practices and a complacent and naive State Central Committee that does not take their duty to their constituents seriously.
In examining the intricacies of Ohio's political landscape, a disconcerting reality emerges as exemplified by the Ohio Republican Party fundraising, which currently garners less than 2% of all its donations from amounts under $1,000. For other parties and candidates it is quite common to raise 50% of all donations from $200 or less. This disparity underscores a disconcerting reliance of the Ohio Republican Party on large special interests, compromising the party's ability to authentically engage with and represent registered Republicans. It is easy to sell the party to the highest bidder but much more difficult to build genuine passion for the party. The reliance on raising funds through a money laundering structure not only perpetuates the existing power dynamics but also reveals a lack of incentive for the party to actively pursue grassroots initiatives, such as registration drives, evangelical outreach, participating in a significant way to promote conservatism or guard against liberalism (Issue 1), or develop impassioned advocacy among registered Republicans for its policies and legislative objectives. A focused realignment that builds passion for the party and that fosters broader support from a multitude of contributors is critical to revitalizing political parties to prioritize the interests of all Ohioans over the influence of a select few.
In contrast to these machinations, an environment fostering the growth of small businesses under properly regulated political parties promises a much different outcome—one where the prosperity of the people takes precedence. Ohio's political parties must undergo a recalibration to prioritize ethical conduct, leveling the playing field for its candidates and ensuring that the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of economic growth are equitably shared among citizens.
The quote by John Adams is not just a historical axiom but a timeless truth that extends to the economic landscape. Legislation designed to promote ethical practices of major political parties and curtail the influence of pay-to-play dynamics is indispensable for the prosperity of our state. Ohio's constitution, metaphorically speaking, transcends legal documents—it embodies the moral fabric that binds our citizens.
The political parties that thrive on the absence of legislation against pay-to-play, and those that fail to meaningfully regulate their business practices, perpetuate an environment where big businesses wield disproportionate influence. Such practices run contrary to biblical principles that emphasize justice and equity in governance.
In stark contrast, an earnest commitment to empowering small businesses fosters an economic landscape where the well-being of the people takes center stage, producing a robust and vibrant economy. The scriptures guide us, reminding us in Isaiah 1:17 to "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause." When State Central Committee members realize that they are the foundation of governance in Ohio - and that it is their willingness not to exert the common due diligence expected of their position - that the cause of Ohio’s problems - originates with them.
Ohio holds the key to redefining its economic narrative by dismantling barriers that hinder political party integrity. Embracing ethical policies that prioritize reforming political parties is not just a matter of principle; it is an economic strategy to embrace integrity in every facet of governance. The call for an awakening among State Central Committee members to the less than virtuous methods their party leaders employ in fundraising is an appeal to righteousness and economic prosperity.
May Ohio emerge as a beacon of virtue and integrity in economic governance, where the well-being of its citizens is paramount, and small businesses thrive as the backbone of a flourishing state.
As a skeptical cynic, I say 'good luck.' As a hopeful optimist, I share 'great start.' Finally, as a believer in Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, I say 'God Speed.'
Be nice if you pinned recommendations for the March 19th primary. There are people running for Central Committee and I have no idea who they are or what they stand for.