President Obama BP’s Biggest Cash Recipient
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This is a news article, not an indictment of President Barack Obama. The fact is that politicians take contributions all the time. It is part of our political system. I have no doubt that Fox News and the Ragged Right will make much of this. Here is the story:
Much like the stain of its oil creeping across the Gulf of Mexico, BP’s cash flowed freely to politicians inside the Beltway—to the tune of some $3.5 million over two decades, reports Politico in a look at where the oil giant’s dollars went. Add to that the $15.9 million BP spent last year on lobbying, and its influence multiplies. The No. 1 recipient? One Barack Obama, who took in $77,000 as a senator and presidential candidate.
Members of the House energy committee grabbed $37,000 from BP in 2008; the Senate Homeland Security Committee (which oversees security issues dealing with US oil supply) took in $106,501. Individual legislators who cashed in:
- Rep. Don Young, R-Alaska—$73,300
- Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz.—$44,899
- Sen. George Voinovich, R-Ohio (home to BP refinery)—$41,400
Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La.—$28,000
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I’m shocked that big money owns both parts of America’s simplistic, kindergarten political dyad.
Considering the posted profits (only just!) by BP… American politicians can be bought for so little…peanuts. Unfortunate that Obama will have to deal with this…
It is way past time for campaign reform. Where is old man get off my lawn with it this time? I wish they did elections here like they did in Britain. You have got what 4-6 weeks to make your case then a vote happens. I could deal with that. Leaves them time to get to the business of the people’s business, instead of begging money from rich patrons.
Of course, taking all that money from an energy company, didn’t influence their decision making at all. Campaign Finance Reform anybody.