Rep. Lee Terry’s Cozy Relationship with Lobbyists and Special Interests: Too Close for Comfort

Omaha, NE – Today, Tom White for Congress called on Congressman Lee Terry to come clean to Nebraskans about his cozy connections with Washington lobbyists and special interests.

"Washington lobbyists and special interests are funding the majority of Congressman Terry’s campaign, and he owes Nebraskans an explanation of exactly what he’s promised them in return," said Ian Russell, Tom White for Congress campaign manager.

Congressman Terry should disclose the following:

• His schedule for the 111th Congress.
• Any and all meetings with lobbyists, both during the day and after-hours, and the topics of discussion during those meetings – issues, policy, legislation, or other matters.
• Any legislative action taken at the request of lobbyists.
• Any statements written by lobbyists in whole or in part and used in floors speeches or read into the Congressional Record by Terry.

"Congressman Terry’s coziness with Washington lobbyists has had a direct impact on his voting record," said Russell. "Terry used lobbyist-written remarks on the House floor, gave Wall Street bankers a taxpayer-funded bail-out and then opposed financial reform at their urging, and voted against closing loopholes that allow big corporations and even foreign companies to have undue influence in American elections."

BACKGROUND:

Opposed Wall Street Reform. Terry opposed the Conference Report accompanying HR 4173, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act [HR 4173, #413, 6/30/10].

Special Interests Are Funding Terry’s Campaign. PACs make up 56% of Terry’s contributions this cycle [Opensecrets.org].

Opposed the DISCLOSE Act. Terry voted against legislation to establish new reporting requirements for corporations, unions and other interest groups for campaign-related activities. [HR 5175, #391, 6/24/10].

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, July 27, 2010