The political landscape of Houston, Texas has been significantly altered by the implementation of new campaign finance regulations. In general, state law prohibits corporations (including non-profit organizations) and labor organizations from making political contributions in connection with local and Texas elections. This means that these entities are unable to donate money to candidates or political committees for the purpose of influencing the outcome of an election. The City of Houston Code of Ordinances defines a “candidate” as any political committee with a specific purpose, and this includes those who choose to receive contributions or make expenses through it. This means that any individual or organization that wishes to contribute to a political campaign must do so through a candidate or political committee. The changes to campaign finance laws have had a major impact on the way that campaigns are conducted in Houston.
Candidates must now rely more heavily on individual donations and grassroots fundraising efforts in order to finance their campaigns. This has led to an increase in the number of small donors who are contributing to campaigns, as well as an increase in the amount of money being raised by candidates. The modifications to campaign finance regulations have also had an effect on the way that candidates are able to communicate with voters. Candidates must now rely more heavily on digital media and social media platforms in order to reach potential voters. This has led to an increase in the use of digital advertising and social media campaigns by candidates. Overall, the changes to campaign finance laws have had a significant impact on politics in Houston, Texas.
Additionally, candidates must now rely more heavily on digital media and social media platforms in order to reach potential voters. These changes have had a major impact on the way that campaigns are conducted in Houston.
