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Budget And Appropriations Process

Strengthening the Economy > Government Spending > Budget And Appropriations Process
We demand that Congress institute reforms that eliminate unethical politicization of appropriations. We oppose trading of votes based on pork sharing, and promises of financial and other help during reelection campaigns. We oppose state funding of programs without legislative approval.
(plank deleted)

"unethical politicization of appropriations" is hopelessly vague. Congress is a political body. It's natural for issues to be politicized.

"We oppose trading of votes based on pork sharing, and promises of financial and other help during reelection campaigns." is also unclear.

It is unclear how the state can can fund programs without legislative approval. Budgets come from the legislature. While the governor has an authority called the "budget executive authority," this is statutorily authorized (source) and has limited legislative review. Modern government is complex, and the governor must have some discretion outside the biennial legislature.

Overall this plank appears to have a naive take on the art of politics. It is not pretty, like sausage making.

Fault:

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Random plank

Preserving American Freedom > Limiting the Expanse of Government Power > Free Speech for the Clergy
We urge change of the Internal Revenue Code to allow a religious organization to address issues without fear losing its tax-exempt status. We call for repeal of requirements that religious organizations send government any personal information about their contributors.
Reason:

This plank is delusional.

Religious organizations generally have 501(c)(3) status. 501(c)(3)s may engage in issue advocacy. This is specifically allowed under current tax law. What they may not do is participate in "any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office" (link) or engage in a substantial amount of lobbying (link).

Churches are not required to file IRS Form 990. In fact, they are generally exempt from tax-related filings.

misinformed, paranoid

Problems

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