The Unintended Consequences of Howard Schultz
Schultz joined by 100 CEOs in fight against politicians
Some campaigns still need funding
Over the past few weeks, Howard Schultz has increased the number of company CEOs who have pledged to boycott all political-campaign contributions [“100 business leaders join Schultz’s call,” Business, Aug. 25].
I too, have grown tired of the government’s status quo. I have experienced what most Americans have: loss of a job, loss of a home, living paycheck to paycheck, the constant worrying about providing for my kids, and continually hearing the empty promises from Washington.
A few months back, I decided to take action like Schultz. I have just filed my paperwork with the Federal Election Commission to challenge Ben Quayle in the 2012 congressional election.
Although I agree with Schultz, I fear that there are unintended consequences of his actions.
The problem I see with Schultz’s pledge is that some candidates are well-connected to campaign contributors. They will be well financed regardless of Schultz’s actions or the actions of fellow CEOs. However, for the citizen candidates like myself, this action will limit access to the capital.
The simple truth is campaigns must have contributors. There is no way to spread the word or a citizen-candidate’s name without adequate funding. This is why we usually see the wealthiest Americans in office and rarely see the average citizen step forward into leadership roles.
What I would suggest to Schultz is to consider limiting the pledge to only those who are currently in office today. After all, they are the ones who have caused the issues Schultz is standing against.
Help give support to the average, not to well-financed, citizen candidates. If you want to change the way government views and responds to the needs of the average citizen and the issues this nation faces, it would be more effective to help place average citizens into leadership roles.
— Russell W. Jenna III, congressional candidate, Arizona District 3, Phoenix
Link to the Seattle Times article