On: TikTok explains its ban on political advertising

[nielsole]

In Germany Political parties get reimbursed for expenses based on how many votes they received. This reduces the dependence upon corporate gifts.

[JoeAltmaier → nielsole]

I understand the practicality of that. But it sets up an expected-value loop, where a dark horse candidate can expect very little reimbursement. Which limits how much campaigning they can do. So they get few votes.