Time to CLEAR Out Corruption

Jonathan Bronstein, Talk Radio News Service

Super-lobbyist Jack Abramoff has become the embodiment for all that is wrong and corrupt with American politics, and while what he did was illegal, another type of legal corruption has pervaded American politics–receiving campaign contributions from a company and then giving them preferential “earmark” legislation.

In an effort to stem any conflict of interest, Representatives Paul Hodes (D-N.H.), Gabrielle Giffords (D-Ariz) and Tom Perriello (D-VA) unveiled the Clean Law for Earmark Accountability Reform Act, CLEAR Act. This act would make it illegal for lawmakers to accept campaign contributions from companies and their top executives who have requested any earmarks.

“As lawmakers we are stewards of the public trust,” said Hodes “and we are in a period of time when it is important to rebuild the public’s trust in the government.” He continued on to say, “This law will help lawmakers avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest.”

The CLEAR Act would mark a major reform in curbing earmark reform, as it will eliminate all possible ethical and legal dilemmas. Additionally, the Representatives hoped that this act would help to reinvigorate Americans confidence in their elected officials.

“We have tried very hard to break the link between lobbyists and a link between legislators,” said Giffords, as representatives can no longer take gifts, food, or ride in lobbyists private jets.