Drug industry contributing more to Democrats
In a sharp reversal, drug and medical device companies are giving more money to Democrats than Republicans this election season, one more sign of the campaign difficulties the GOP could face this November.
The difference is more pronounced in the presidential race. Drug and device makers have contributed $639,124 to Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., $574,828 to Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-N.Y., and $168,300 to Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. The center calculated the totals based on data released Feb. 28 by the Federal Election Commission.
In 2004, Pfizer donated $1.3 million to federal campaigns. About 69 percent went to Republicans and 31 percent went to Democrats. This year, Pfizer has donated more than $862,000. About 52 percent has gone to Democratic candidates and 48 percent to Republicans, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
Pfizer explained its spending through a statement sent by e-mail: “We support candidates and policymakers in both parties who share our common goal of expanding access to medicines, improving health outcomes through medical innovation and delivering value to patients.”
AP
5/22/8
Magnolia Tribune
