What government action directly addresses the regulation of soft money in campaigns?

The Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act, commonly known as the McCain-Feingold Act, is the correct answer as it was specifically designed to address the issue of soft money in political campaigns. Soft money refers to contributions that are not regulated by federal law since they are not directly given to a candidate’s campaign but rather to party organizations for purposes such as party-building activities.

The McCain-Feingold Act aimed to eliminate the use of soft money for federal campaigns by prohibiting national parties from raising or spending any soft money. It also imposed stricter regulations on the sources and amounts of money that can be used in political advertising. This legislative effort was a response to the growing influence of money in politics and aimed to promote greater transparency and fairness in electoral processes.

The other options represent significant rulings and regulations but do not focus specifically on soft money in the same comprehensive way. Austin v. Michigan Chamber of Commerce upheld restrictions on corporate spending in campaigns, while Citizens United expanded the ability of corporations and unions to spend money on independent campaign expenditures. McCutcheon v. FEC dealt with contribution limits to candidates and political committees but did not directly address the regulation of soft money. Thus, the Bipartisan Campaign Finance Reform Act stands out as