Embargo backers gave $10m to lawmakers

November 16, 2009|Associated Press

MIAMI - Supporters of tough US sanctions against the Cuban government have given more than $10 million to congressional campaigns over the past seven years, according to a study released last night by a group supporting a campaign finance overhaul.

The Washington-based nonprofit Public Campaign said the study shows how large sums of money from a small group can influence lawmakers. Public Campaign said there have been a number of times in which lawmakers changed their position on Cuba-related issues within months of receiving funds from a political action committee that supports the US embargo of the island.

Those who back the PAC say they are being unfairly targeted for their passionate views toward their homeland.

“Perhaps it’s the age-old story of money and politics, but 18 members switched their votes on the subject, some in very close proximity to when they got donations,’’ said Public Campaign’s David Donnelly.

“When an issue is not in the front view like health care, our campaign finance system sets up a situation in which the members are more interested in the money than deciding a rational, reasoned approach,,’’ he added.

Mauricio Claver-Carone, the Washington-based director of the PAC, said the group is simply exercising its constitutional right to political participation.

“For some of these folks, it’s OK for unions to support prolabor members. It’s OK for trial lawyers to help elect prolitigators. It’s OK for the Jewish community to help elect pro-Israel,’’ Claver-Carone said, adding, “But somehow it’s not OK for the Cuban community to help elect members and candidates that help and support conditioning business and tourism with the Castro regime with human rights and democratic reforms.’’