Biggest Secret in Washington, D.C.

Bill Smith, ARRA Editor: I hate to point fingers at conservatives. Certainly in this situation, I have no fingers pointing back -- as I definitely am not on the "cash circuit." If this revelation makes independent conservative writers feel a little used by the larger conservative groups, it is understandable. While cash is needed to advance causes; are some causes advanced more because of cash payments to their leaders?

William J. Murray, Director of the Religious Freedom Coalition, said this week:

It is no surprise that several of the larger conservative groups have "leaders" who also operate "consulting services." However, frequently the clients of the consulting firms have their agendas moved forward by the associated "conservative group." On some occasions economic conservative groups just flat out ask corporations for money to assist them with promoting legislation. Recently the American Conservative Union told Federal Express that for a mere $2 million dollars, the group would assist them in fighting a union supported bill in Congress. See Politico.com for details. The demand for cash was astonishing even by Washington standards. Other economic conservative groups have accepted funds from Islamic nations or Islamic corporations. Those groups never side with social conservatives trying to stop the spread of militant Islam.

In the future, I think I need to review closer all those organizations mailing us requests for donations to determine which directors or persons of influence are "providing personal consulting services" to influence which agenda these organizations address. I know money talks, but please, how about a little transparency here! The secret is out! See also: Conservative group offers support for $2 Million

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