From the Sunlight Foundation...Republicans cozy up with BP lobbyist Thursday
On Thursday, June 24, Dan Meyer, a lobbyist for BP, is listed as one of several hosts for a Thursday $1,000-a-plate luncheon at the boutique Hotel George in downtown Washington. Meyer, who’s with the Duberstein Group, was the Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs under George W. Bush in 2007-2008.
The fundraiser will benefit Colorado candidate Cory Gardner, who is in a tight race with incumbent Betsy Markey, D, Colo.
Amidst the biggest oil spill in US history, a series of public relations foibles, and public outrage against BP, the company’s lobbyists are continuing to work the Washington circuit.
The lunch also includes other energy lobbyists and industry players, including representatives from Koch Industries, whose political action committee is also listed as a host. House Energy and Commerce Committee members receive more contributions from Koch Industries than any other committees’ members. One member of this committee is Rep. Marsha Blackburn, R-Tenn., who is listed as a headliner to Thursday’s lunch. Koch donated $7,500 to Blackburn’s campaign this cycle and also donated $2,500 towards Gardner’s campaign, according to Federal Election Commission reports.
Minnesota Rep. Erik Paulsen (Whoops, Gardner’s party planning team misspelled his first name on the invitation) is also scheduled to attend.
Note: Party Time blogged last week about how Gardner canceled a Colorado fundraiser after the event’s main draw, Rep. Steve King, said that president Obama favors blacks over whites.
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Way to be in touch with Americans, Congressman!
