Introduction

James Estrin/The New York Times

The latest political corruption scandals in New York have reminded voters that Michael Bloomberg’s tenure as New York City major has been been largely free of corruption. People comment on his independent streak, assuming it has kept him out of the machine politics that the city and the state are known for. But could it be Bloomberg’s independent means that have kept him above the fray? Are wealthier politicians more beholden to their constituents and less corruptible?