I often see those on the left complaining about the corporations being locked in with the government, and how the government favors corporations, corporations favor republicans, etc.  I'm not agreeing or disagreeing with this claim, although I am a bit confused.

I can understand how various companies/interests can be highly impacted by which type of government is in office.  For example, Planned Parenthood benefits from a democrat structure while Intel benefits from a republican structure.  The explanation for this belief is fairly clear, as the government has power to set standards which directly affect these companies.

Where I get a little confused is how do these companies affect who is elected?  Since even corporate honchos and pro-choice gurus only get one vote a piece, I am assuming it is because of contributions made by these companies to the political campaigns.

So this is where I get a little lost.  Where exactly does this money go?  Ok, the candidates make trips around the country to give speeches.  A trip around the country, stopping in, say, 10 major cities... would probably cost about $25,000, including luxury accomodations and transportation.  Then their posses have to be fed.. maybe another $10,000.  They need security, so say another $25,000.  So, just to go on the high end, let's say their visits to various cities cost about $150,000.  So where do the rest of all these millions of dollars go?  I'd hate to think it is all spent on TV commercials which only serve to slam the other candidate.

Aside from wondering what exactly the campaign money is used for, I also wonder if it even does any good.  I watch the Presidential Debates on tv. I read the election news in the paper.  If a candidate came to my town, I would have no reason to go and see him repeat the same statements in person.  Nor would it affect my vote.  Same goes for the tv ads.  They don't affect my vote either.

Anyone have any insight??