Fundraising New York Style

A lot of people don't know how politics and fundraising work. The Note writes about major political fundraising that is going on today in New York City. Both parties and from all over the country.

Since roughly 95% (or so) of all political fundraising in the United States is done in Manhattan between 14th Street and 96th Street in places such as the Sheraton, the Hilton, and fancy apartments — it is appropriate that the Mayor's group is convening on East 52nd Street for this announcement. That is right in the heart of Cash Central.

Bloomberg is bringing together over 100 key donors from both parties to launch "The New York City Card"  a credit-card-size card that will list The City's top legislative priorities in Washington and in Albany. Now when out-of-state or upstate candidates come calling for cash, the biggest donors in The City can reach for their wallets and ask the candidate where they stand on, say, threat-based appropriations for homeland security, or eminent domain. Detailed information on The City's pending federal and state issues priorities will also be distributed regularly.

I'm not anti-money. I understand that campaigning is expensive. I have also stated that I'm against the McCain-Feingold bill. Voters should be aware of how the process works and which interest groups support which candidates. What is happening today is businesses and lobbyists with the deepest pockets are wining and dining candidates. There won't be a grassroots group in site. Where people have the power is they can still vote for or against a politician.

Most likely, National Assn of Realtors, FedEx Corp, AT&T , BellSouth, American Dental Assn, and Bank of America will be there. Those groups donate heavily towards both parties. They are not about ideology. These groups are about getting their lobbyists access to write bills.