Buckley v. Valeo: A Study Guide for United States Supreme Court

This comprehensive study guide provides an in-depth analysis of the landmark Supreme Court case Buckley v. Valeo, exploring its historical context, legal significance, and enduring impact on American campaign finance law.

Study Guide for United States Supreme Court's Buckley v. Valeo (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Course Hero

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3236 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	1413 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	39 pages
Item Weight	:	3.84 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.1 x 9 inches

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Historical Context

Buckley v. Valeo arose in the wake of the 1972 presidential election, which was marked by unprecedented levels of political spending. In response, Congress enacted the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) of 1971, which sought to regulate campaign finance and limit the influence of money in politics.

However, several provisions of FECA were challenged in court by a group of plaintiffs led by James L. Buckley, a conservative candidate for the U.S. Senate. The plaintiffs argued that these provisions violated the First Amendment by restricting their freedom of speech and political association.

Legal Significance

The Supreme Court's decision in Buckley v. Valeo was a major turning point in campaign finance law. The Court upheld the constitutionality of some provisions of FECA, while striking down others.

Specifically, the Court held that the First Amendment:

• Protects the right of individuals and organizations to make unlimited independent expenditures on political campaigns.
• Limits the amount of money that candidates can contribute to their own campaigns.
• Requires candidates to disclose the sources of their campaign contributions.

Impact on American Politics

The decision in Buckley v. Valeo has had a profound impact on American politics. By upholding the right of individuals and organizations to make unlimited independent expenditures, the Court has allowed wealthy individuals and special interest groups to play a larger role in funding political campaigns.

In addition, the Court's decision has made it more difficult for candidates to challenge incumbents, who typically have a large advantage in fundraising. This has led to a more polarized political landscape, with less competition and more gridlock in government.

Buckley v. Valeo remains a controversial decision, but it is also one of the most important cases in American campaign finance law. The Court's ruling has had a profound impact on the way that political campaigns are funded and has shaped the political landscape of the United States.

Further Reading

• Oyez: Buckley v. Valeo
• ACLU: Buckley v. Valeo: A Landmark Campaign Finance Case
• Brennan Center for Justice: Buckley v. Valeo: 40 Years Later

Study Guide for United States Supreme Court's Buckley v. Valeo (Course Hero Study Guides)

by Course Hero

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3236 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	1413 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	39 pages
Item Weight	:	3.84 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.1 x 9 inches

FREE