The current affordability crisis in the United States has greatly affected the nation’s perception of optimism. A prevalent question has emerged: why should wealth provide different advantages, including a unique set of rules?

A distinct advantage of being affluent is evident through experiences like courtside seats or extravagant vacations. More importantly, it often means having an influential role in shaping democracy.

This election cycle, corporate political spending is on an unprecedented rise. Companies have already donated $646 million to federal races. This is a significant increase of 40 percent compared to the entire spending during the 2024 presidential cycle. That period also saw record-breaking levels of corporate contributions.