In the United States (and many countries), money has long played a central role in politics, shaping who gets elected, which policies are prioritized, and whose voices are heard. From campaign contributions to corporate lobbying, financial influence impacts the political system, often determining outcomes before the public even has a chance to weigh in. On November 11, the ACG held a discussion on the impact of campaign finance, lobbying, and corporate contributions on politics with authors Julian Heissler and Ray Madoff, who examined the ways financial interests shape legislation, sway political decisions, and ultimately affect the everyday lives of citizens.