Can the US return to the values of its Founders? Reversal of the Santa Clara case would be the first step to subjecting corporations to the control of the people. The federal government, each state, each township, could then regulate corporations to the benefit of its citizens and help local economies to flourish once again. Indeed, in California local governments have already passed laws that deny corporations the status of persons, while in Pennsylvania some townships have forbidden corporations from owning or controlling farms in their communities.
Huge questions remain. Deprived of personhood the corporations would still have financial bullypower. But, because of its unique constitution, the United States could lead the world once again towards government of the people by the people, for the people (not by and for corporations).
Contributions for 1996 elections:
96% of Americans - $0
the next 3.75% - up to $200
top 500 corporations - over $500,000 each
In 1998 elections the top 500 corporations
gave $660,000,000 to candidates.
Unequal Protection
Thom Hartmann 2002
