Which of the following best describes the restrictions imposed by the Federal Election Campaign Act?

The choice describing the Federal Election Campaign Act (FECA) as requiring public disclosure and limiting spending for presidential campaigns accurately reflects the primary objectives of the legislation. Enacted in 1971, FECA was aimed at increasing transparency within the electoral process by necessitating the reporting of campaign contributions and expenditures. This requirement for public disclosure ensures that both candidates and the public have access to important financial information, promoting accountability in campaign financing.

Additionally, FECA established legal limits on individual contributions to campaigns, as well as overall spending in presidential elections, effectively regulating the amount of money that candidates can use to promote their electoral bids. By placing these limitations, the Act sought to diminish the influence of money on political outcomes and create a more equitable playing field among candidates.

The other choices do not accurately summarize the provisions of FECA. Unlimited donations without any reporting requirements do not align with the Act’s intention for transparency. Mandatory public financing for all federal candidates does not capture the reality that while the act provides a system for public funding, it does not make it mandatory for every candidate. Lastly, the idea of no restrictions on foreign contributions directly contradicts the laws established under FECA, which prohibits foreign entities from contributing to U.S. campaigns.