WHO: Rep. Chris Smith (R-N.J.), a co-sponsor of the Employee Free Choice Act (aka card check)
WHAT: Smith received the following dirty money: Communication Workers of America (PAC) $2,000 in 2008 cycle; $1,000 in 2006 cycle. Boilermakers Union (PAC) $1,000 in 2008. International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (PAC) $10,000 in 2008 election cycle; $10,000 in 2006 election cycle. American Federation of Government Employees (PAC) $1,000 in 2008 election cycle; $500 in 2006 election cycle. Service Employees International Union (PAC) $5,000 in 2008 election cycle; $5,000 in 2006 election cycle.
WHY IT’S DIRTY: At least eight members of these five unions have been convicted since 2001 of felonies ranging from embezzlement, falsifying official reports to government, mail fraud and conspiracy. The Boilermakers have had at least 10 of its members and convicted and the IBEW has had at least 14, while the AFGE has had at least eight convictions and the SEIU has had at least nine convictions. The convictions include theft, fraud and embezzlement offenses. The amounts of embezzled funds range from over $5,000 to over $100,000.
WILL SMITH GIVE IT BACK? Smith did not respond to telephone and email requests for comment.
THE SCORE:
Number of Democrats who have given it back: 0
Number of Republicans who have given it back: 0
YOUR TURN: You can contact Rep. Smith at 202-224-3765. Let us know if you get a response.
