ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Thursday, October 3, 1996 TAG: 9610030039
SECTION: EDITORIAL PAGE: A-8 EDITION: METRO
HOW RICH: one of Richmond's most prominent lobbyists warning state lawmakers to take care not to do anything that might look like influence-peddling while soliciting or accepting campaign contributions.
The actions of some Louisiana lawmakers in receiving funds for favorable legislation has led to criminal indictments by the Justice Department, Anthony Troy told a subcommittee of the House Privileges and Elections Committee. The former attorney general, current tobacco, health-care and securities lobbyist, said he hoped some of the actions alleged in an FBI affidavit do not occur in Virginia. But, a Richmond Times-Dispatch story quoted him as saying, "paragraph after paragraph describe what we do every day."
Influence-peddling? Who would be so low as to suggest such a possibility among the gentlemen and ladies of Virginia's General Assembly? They are so far above such temptation that they have refused time and again to set any limits on campaign contributions in the state. Just let those ol' special interests try to buy influence - and then let 'em try some more.
Some of the House subcommittee members allowed as how they might need educating on the ins and outs of conducting these delicate transactions, to make sure they keep them all legal-like. But Troy's lawyerly advice was aimed at lobbyists:
Always mail the check; don't hand-deliver it. Send it with a cover letter, preferably to a candidate's campaign office rather than legislative office. The cover letter should be neutral, saying something about supporting the candidate because the donor appreciates good government. Best not give donations during a legislative session or while legislation in which the contributor has an interest is being considered. (You know, that might look bad.)
Oh, and don't pay in cash.
At last, the difference between prostitution and political influence is made clear: Smart operators will insist on paying in cash for one, by check for the other.
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