Richard Pombo's Family and Friend's Network, a new report by the League of Conservation Voters, was released today.
Major findings on the flip.
Rep. Richard Pombo's Family & Friends Network" catalogues the various legislative payoffs that benefit both his friends, such as big oil companies and greedy developers, and his family's own financial situation. In addition, the report documents Rep. Pombo's numerous ethical lapses and his close ties to indicted former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX). In sharp contrast, the report also outlines how Rep. Pombo recklessly ignores problems in his district, such as out-of-control traffic and rising gas prices, and pursues policies that actually harm the quality of life of his constituents in the 11th district.
"Almost every day, Representative Richard Pombo is in news. Unfortunately, as our report outlines, the news is not about serving the interests of his constituents or his district, but the most recent scandal he is involved in or the latest bill he is proposing to weaken our environmental protections," said Tony Massaro, LCV Senior Vice President for Political Affairs.
"Rep. Pombo has been working for the corporate special interests, instead of working hard for the citizens who elected him to Congress. That is why we are urging constituents to use their cell phone minutes to ask the congressman why they are not in his 'Family & Friends Network.'"
"Representative Pombo has a record of abusing his power to put his own personal agenda and the interests of corporate special interests ahead of his constituents. From proposing the sale of our national parks to the highest bidder to pushing legislation designed to help his own family, to attempts to drill off our coastline, Rep. Pombo has abused his power in Congress to pay off his 'Network of Family and Friends,'" said Susan Smartt, CLCV Executive Director. "Rep. Pombo ought to be paying attention to his constituents, not his corporate cronies."
- Truly, Richard Pombo is losing his ability of fly Under the Radar.
I hope the DNC is paying attention. This could be one of the most important races of 2006.
Download the full report here (.pdf).