I don't think people realize how much graft is built into the system.

• Bribery is near impossible to prove. (Thanks SCOTUS)
• You can effectively keep left over campaign funds.
• Insider trading does not apply to you.
• Your paycheck is expected to cover 2 offices, staff at each, 2 homes, frequent travel between them, and your political advisors.
• Fundraising is organized by the party, stay on their good side and you get help and resources to raise money. Introduced to the right people, etc. Get on the wrong side and get cut off.

It's no wonder our elected representatives treat small donations like mana from heaven, we're effectively paying them. And they treat the capitol building like a stock trading room because that's their real retirement fund, their key to independence from the party.