Daniel Weintraub:

When California voters approved Proposition 34 in 2000, they were told it would limit the influence of money in political campaigns. The measure capped contributions to legislative races at $3,000, and it put a $5,000 limit on donations in most statewide elections, with a $20,000 ceiling in campaigns for governor.

But the ballot measure had consequences most voters probably never imagined. Instead of costing less, campaigns now cost more. And instead of candidates raising money and controlling how it is spent, independent groups that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money now control much of the political battlefield.

This is typical of campaign finance reform. Almost every attempt to limit the role of money in politics has failed. And most of them, including Proposition 34, have actually made things worse.

What a shock.

Now, what comes to mind when you hear the term “special interests?” Cigar chomping lobbyists for Big Oil, Big Pharma, Big Banking…etc? Think again.

Here’s a list of the Top 8 (by $$ spent) lobbyists in California.

1. Californians for Better Government — a PAC that supports Democrat candidates

2. Alliance for a Better California — a consortium of unions

3. First Americans for a Better California — Indian gambling tribes

4. JOBS PAC — a pro-business group

5. CA Correctional Peace Officers Association — another union

6. Morongo Band of Mission Indians — more casino Indians

7. Strengthing Our Lives Through Education — a “unique coalition of labor, community and faith-based groups” they say. Another union group.

8. Team 2006 — still running this one down.