The 5-4 decision by the Supreme Court allowing corporations to pour millions into federal elections is frightening and dangerous ("And now, the deluge," Jan. 25). Even more alarming is that many of us never saw it coming. In fact this "gem" really took me by surprise.

I cringe to think where the Citizens United v. FEC decision will lead. In coming campaigns, corporations will be lining up to shovel funds into their favorite candidates' war chests.

If Americans took greater interest in local politics, such a judicial bombshell would not be so troublesome. Sadly most folks these days are more engrossed in their own "electronic bubbles" than they are in the real world around them. Consider too that millions of Americans are in thrall to our celebrity culture and its media hype. This too can be bought and sold. How easy now to sway the masses with mega-dollar investments, outreach and advertising!

As a publisher of a neighborhood events calendar (www.innerharbornetwork.com), I'm often annoyed by the apathy and restricted interests of so many. No doubt politicians and their professional entourages know that apathy all too well. Thanks to the Supreme Court ruling, not only will corporations pour in the cash, they'll support their investments with shrewd advertising, public relations programs and just plain propaganda. It's not only the money; it's everything else that goes along with it. The "little guy" doesn't stand a chance!

What a triumph Citizens United v. FEC is for big oil, Wall Street, the insurance industry, powerful corporations and bankers!

Rosalind Ellis, Baltimore

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