Washington Post
Over the past three years, as Aurora sought defense contracts, the Republican member of the Appropriations defense subcommittee received escalating contributions from the company's executives. Aurora was Wicker's top source of campaign funds in 2006, campaign finance records show. In 2005, the company flew the congressman on a private jet to the ribbon cutting of a manufacturing facility it opened in Wicker's Mississippi district.
And just days after Wicker's chief of staff, John Keast, left his employ in 2006, Aurora began listing the former staffer on public forms as one of its lobbyists in Washington. Wicker placed the earmark in a defense appropriations bill that became law in November 2007.
The Democrats Respond:
“Roger Wicker is the poster child for quid pro quo politics, repaying campaign cash with an even more generous earmark,” said Wayne Dowdy, chairman of the Mississippi Democratic Party.
“Sen. Wicker was elected to look out for the people of Mississippi, not to fill his campaign coffers. When the moving company relocates Wicker’s things from his House office to his temporary Senate office, I hope they leave the revolving door behind.”
Will state media respond OR like during the gubernatorial campaign can we expect crickets?
You all keep speaking of Aurora like it's something to be discussed in hushed-tones.
ReplyDeleteThe fact of the matter is that Aurora recently opened a facility in Columbus, after initially being a part of MSU's Raspet Flight Center in Starkville.
Again, I ask, "what's the big deal?." Wicker used his influence to bring defense contracts to the Golden Triangle--thank God! The Golden Triangle has been fortunate to get a few defense contracts, including Aurora.
Wicker brought jobs and economic growth to the people of the ditrict. To me, that's a good thing.
Yea, I cant wait to see one of the Ronnies run a commercial criticizing him for using an earmark to create more jobs in Columbus.
ReplyDeleteLets ask Harry Reid about some land deals of his.
So y'all are buying the politician's (of all stripes) argument that ethics don't matter if the official brings home taxpayer dollars in quantity?
ReplyDelete