Money always talks
By Tobi Dragert, Letter to the Editor
Once again, private campaign contributions influence public
policy, as the City Council may not push Anschutz
Entertainment Group to defray the public cost of the
Michael Jackson memorial service.
I take issue with Councilwoman Jan Perry's claim that it's
a "stupid way to think" that AEG owns Los Angeles. I think
it would be stupid to assume AEG gets no payback for its
huge donations to city politicians. Smart businesses don't
invest in politicians unless there is a reasonable rate of
return.
Assuming this scenario is but a microcosm of common
practice on all levels of government, if citizens don't
start demanding a public-financing option, then we get the
government we deserve.
Tobi Dragert
Los Angeles
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