Senate Corruption

The image of the Senator as a selfless public servant has been significantly strained over the last few decades, and scandals and corruption have become increasingly frequent amongst the Republic's senatorial class.

The intoxicating mix of power, combined with their status as quasi-celebrities and their access to the Republic's elite on Umbria, have proven to be a poison pill for an increasing number of the people's elected representatives.

Access to the levers of government and the notoriety of being one of the most important people in the entire Republic can prove to be a toxic combination for those senators whose principles are not firmly founded and secure.  Publications like the Palatinate Pratter, or P2, specialize in chasing every rumor of debauchery and excess, and the Republic's tabloids are ruthlessly effective in exploiting any sign of moral weakness.

Perhaps more damaging than the excessive and unchecked hedonism displayed by some senators is the manner in which they obtain the wealth needed to support their habits.

Regardless of their economic conditions prior to their election, few senators leave the senate without accruing incredible wealth. This has created a permissive atmosphere where self-enrichment is seen as a lesser sin, and where the trappings of office require the support of a substantial bankroll.

Many point to the lax regulations involving how the senators can use their knowledge of pending legislation to effectively play the market in a way that would result in a hefty prison sentence for a private citizen. Others point to the Republic's system of campaign finance, which allows candidates to keep any unspent contributions to their campaign.

The most corrosive aspect of all however, is the manner in which wealthy individuals and corporations use their economic power to influence the Republic's representatives. Lavished fundraisers, the lending of private luxury yachts, and other means of 'non-financial' gift giving are completely unregulated.

This has created a sub-culture on certain key worlds, where it is broadly understood that access to a senator is conditional on providing some form of compensation. Public anger at the state of affairs is palpable, but few see a way to punish those involved or stop the corruption from spreading.