Winners, losers in the Supreme Court's decision

Here's a look at who benefits and who doesn't in Thursday's decision:

WINNER

Voters. Not sure where a candidate stands? Need more information to make a wise decision? Never fear. Corporations and unions are likely to tell you their version of things. But buyer beware: It's still up to voters to separate fact from fiction.

LOSER

Voters. Had enough of campaign ads? Too bad. People probably will have to endure even more now that corporations and unions can spend as much as they want right up to the moment of an election. More ads will boost the potential for more salacious spots and negative campaigning.

WINNER

Corporations and unions. These high-dollar entities can spend freely to support or oppose named candidates for president and Congress.

LOSER

Political parties and many candidates. More voices in the mix mean candidates and parties will have even less control of the message, and they won't be able to do anything to stop groups from running ads they don't like. Still, cash-strapped candidates could welcome such independent spending that attacks an opponent.

WINNER

The First Amendment. The ruling was clearly a victory for this pillar of democracy. Critics of the stricter limits had argued that they amount to an unconstitutional restraint of free speech, and the court majority agreed.

LOSER

Civility and truthfulness. Watch out, candidates: You may not like what you hear. And there will be little you can do about it. Republicans and Democrats say ads are likely to get tougher now that outside groups can expressly advocate for or against candidates.

WINNER

Media companies, TV and radio stations. They already see a financial windfall every two and four years during congressional and presidential campaigns. Paydays could be even bigger now as money floods in for ads.

Liz Sidoti, The Associated Press