The argument for funding political parties after elections so that democracy survives is surely a contorted construct in thinking that belies reality (“Bucks don’t stop here” ST, 13/6). While big-spending influence peddlers may have corrupted weak and inept elected officials in the past, subsidising parties in proportion to their vote-share should have been adopted only if all donations to candidates were otherwise completely banned. Except for developers, anyone can donate within reportable limits. To run a campaign, parties are holding fundraisers rather than borrowing from banks and paying off the debt post-election. An independent with only self-funding is taking a big financial risk and will be less likely to match major parties in advertising and media investment before the election. His or her message will be less circulated and so the supposed broader choice for those seeking democracy will not be enhanced. Contrary to Premier Chris Minn’s platitudes, democracy is not enhanced by this ridiculous funding arrangement. Alan Sexton, North Parramatta 15June2026
