The state's executive branch chimed in on ethics reform today as Gov. Jay Nixon (D) sent a letter to legislators calling for comprehensive reform.
In 1994, an overwhelming majority of Missouri voters spoke loud and clear – they want real and meaningful controls on the influence of money in politics,” Nixon said in the letter. “In that election, 74% of Missourians voted for tough campaign contribution limits. …Meaningful ethics reform must begin with contribution limits…”
Nixon's proposal is built on four pillars:
The first component comes as no surprise given the upheaval in the political contribution world since the limits were lifted by the Republican-dominated legislature in 2008. Nixon also successfully presented the state's contribution limits to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1999, which upheld the limits.
The second pillar does come as a surprise, since this is a common practice employed by large political power brokers, including Nixon. During the 2008 campaign, Nixon adviser Chuck Hatfield perfected the transfers and funneled thousands to both Nixon and Attorney General Chris Koster through a committee called the Economic Growth Council. Neither candidate was found to have committed wrongdoing in coordinating these transfers. Koster's case, though, was extensively reviewed by the state Ethics Commission and dismissed only when the 7-member panel failed to approve further action with 3 abstentions.
"Missourians expect and deserve a government that is transparent, accountable and responsive," Nixon said. "Meaningful ethics reform will help make sure that each of us who holds the public trust lives up to that clear standard."
Related Links:
Letter sent by Nixon to General Assembly
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Governor calls for ethics reform
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