The ruling points the way to a solution, one that, happily, seems to be gaining political traction: public financing of campaigns. Seven states now give candidates for some state offices the option of rejecting private donations and accepting a fixed amount of public money. If candidates choose private donations, the amounts are publicly reported and exposed to voter scrutiny and debate.

This system has the beauty of promoting more speech, not less, and of offering voters candidates who are unfettered by private donations. The availability of public money also encourages newcomers to enter races, broadening the field beyond party regulars.

Best of all, this method has withstood court challenges, and it works.

Choice works: Let politicians choose how to finance campaigns. Let voters choose whether money from the public or from special interests provides cleaner government.