Senate offers labor a louder voice, for a price
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ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - The campaign committee of the Senate's Democratic majority is offering labor leaders a chance at special access to senators and influence on labor issues for a $50,000 campaign contribution.
Senate Conference Leader John Sampson said other political groups have had similar offers, including a Republican campaign committee in Washington.
Blair Horner of the New York Public Interest Research Group says the practice stinks. He says that although it may be legal, it is one of the most brazen examples of pay to play in Albany that he's seen.
The New York Post first reported that labor officials who join pay $50,000 would be named to an advisory group that would have access with leaders and help develop campaign strategy.
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