Obama has created a STEALTH system of not having to report lobbyist contributions. This is done by asking for and taking contributions from lobbyists wives. The Hill article is quite damning of Obama's camp actually employing political operatives who are lobbyists themselves. I think Obama is having an integrity challenged moment.
"Some of Obama’s K Street boosters keep their support a secret to uphold Obama’s image as a Washington outsider untainted by D.C.’s influence business.
When Obama declared his presidential candidacy in February, he said he would re-engage Americans disenchanted with business-as-usual in Washington who had turned away from politics.
“The cynics, and the lobbyists, and the special interests who’ve turned our government into a game only they can afford to play. They write the checks and you get stuck with the bills, they get the access while you get to write a letter; they think they own this government, but we’re here today to take it back. The time for that politics is over. It’s time to turn the page.”
****In a fundraising e-mail distributed yesterday, Obama emphasized his stance against taking money from lobbyists and PACs. Two lobbyists who are supporting another candidate and spoke to The Hill on condition of anonymity said that Obama’s campaign contacted them asking to be put in touch with their networks of business clients and acquaintances.*****
One of the lobbyists, who supports Clinton, said that Shomik Dutta, a fundraiser for Obama’s campaign, called to ask if the lobbyist’s wife would be interested in making a political contribution.
“I was quite taken aback,” he said. “He was very direct in saying that you’re a lobbyist and we don’t want contributions from lobbyists. But your wife can contribute and we like your network.”
you can read the entire article here:
http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/obamas-k-street-project-2007-03-28.html
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