Danny, Welcome to the discussion I would hope that all politicians are savvy enough to recognize that any donation of any large size is an effort to buy a seat at the discussion table. It doesn't matter if it MADD, the MEA, a business or Save the Whales. Nor does it matter if they are Greens, Republicans or Democrats. What maybe will be different in the next two years is the fact that the public conservatives, liberals and others appear to be ready to partner at least on healthcare "solutions". The relationships between those setting the agenda in what appears to be concert with the health insurance industry and pharmaceuticals may find that to be the kiss of death to their political careers. The people are tired of hearing about wellness programs, further studies, commissions and partial solutions. They will demand price reductions or controls and access for those at the bottom of the economic ladder. Which ever party provides the vision, the leadership and the skills to get it done will, in my opinion win the majority of the people's support. The real test is are they able do the people's business as an elected body "fair to the players" without the input of those who bought a seat at the table to stack the deck.
Paul Double From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Phil Carlson Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 10:41 AM [Winona Online Democracy] Danny, thanks for posting. You are exactly what we've wanted on WOD for a long time - new voices! I would offer two comments to your questions. First, a campaign contribution is not necessarily a "bribe", although there is often the hope that this kind of support will result in the kind of votes one wants. Where the line is between healthy endorsement and outright bribery is one of the more complex questions in current politics. Second, it is quite common for businesses, organizations and individuals to contribute to both sides of a campaign. That way, they supported the winner no matter what. - Phil Carlson, Mpls -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Behalf Of ImFeelinParanoid Sent: Tuesday, November 11, 2003 10:30 AM Hello everyone. My name is Danny Hawkins and this is my first time posting on WOD. I heard about WOD on MPR and the thought of voicing my opinion was intriguing so, here I am. I was wondering if anyone had heard anything regarding the story of two insurance executives making "illegal donations" to the National Republican Campaign Committee (NRCC). Here's the gist of the story. "Harry Bassett Jr., senior vice president of government relations for the Assurant Group, and Jerome Atkinson, the insurance conglomerate's general counsel, were charged with felonies when Minnesota Republican Chairman Ron Eibensteiner was indicted last month on gross misdemeanor charges of aiding and abetting the contributions." (Pioneer Press 11/11/03) When I first saw the title of the story I figured, "Whatever, this is what big businesses do." Then I started to read it. These two guys, Atkinson and Basset, made two contributions to the NRCC totalling and $15,000. But that's not all. They also made ! another "illegal donation" to the National Democratic Campaign Committee too! I don't know if I'm missing something or what, but when a donation, contribution, bribe, etc. is made for political reasons, doesn't it usually go towards one party? I'm very perturbed, and I think that's what the Assurant boys were trying to do. If anyone has any feedback, write away right away! Confused and concerned, Danny Hawkins ____________________________________________ Cool-teens.com Email - Free email for teens! _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
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