'I never look at who my donors are...'
Reporter Dan Abendschein wrote this story today about a bill proposed by Sen. Ron Calderon that would open medical records to pharmaceutical companies. Oh, and by the way, Calderon got $15,000 in contributions from these companies, Abendschein wrote.
In 2007, Calderon received more than $15,000 in contributions from pharmaceutical companies and retail pharmacies, records show. Two of his contributors, Rite Aid and the National Association of Chain Drug Stores, are supporters of the bill. The sponsor of the bill is a drug company, Adheris, which is a for-profit company that works to keep patients taking their medications.
Company officials did not return phone calls Friday. Calderon says the bill would help companies like Adheris carry out their mission. He added that his concern is for patients, and it is irrelevant whether drug companies and pharmacies benefit or not.
But don't worry. It doesn't have any impact on Calderon's decision, Abendschein reported.
"I never look at who my donors are before I decide to sponsor a bill," said Calderon. "My idea is to help people get their medications."
Sort of reminds me of Clinton's infamous remark that he "did not have sex with that woman".
Apparently, Calderon thinks the public is stupid and buys into his absurd statements. However he probably doesn't look at his donor list before sponsoring a bill...heck, he just lets them draft the proposed bill and then he submits it on their behalf.