Virginia Campaign Finance reform laws

[Sid Dante <nextpele@hotmail.com>]

I am a senior at the Governor's School in Richmond, Virginia, and this past year i had the opportunity to work first with a candidate for the Democratic nomination of Lt. Governor and also at the Virginia General Assembly while it was in session. One thing that struck me was that money was extremely important to these delegates, and the Lt. Gov candidate i worked in was disadvantaged for he had no experience in fundraising.  

I have reviewed Virginia's Campaign laws and have noticed that since Virginia sets no limits for any contributions, candidates from other states form PACs in Virginia to funnnel money to them.  Example of these candidates are Senator Breax and former Senator Ashcroft.  Though Virginia has great disclosure laws, the money-running that occurs under Virginia laws may affect other campaigns.