The "culture of corruption" rhetoric Leader Pelosi and the national Democrats have tried to attribute to Republicans in general, has received another blow to its credibility. Not withstanding the recent revelations of bribery involving Congressman Jefferson and the defense influence peddling of Jack Murtha, Democrat State Rep. and former Democratic state chairman Mike Mass of Hartshorne is embroiled in another ethical dilemma. The Daily Oklahoman is reporting that the representative was a paid consultant for a businessman whose McAlester dog food plant received at least $699,560 in state money earmarked by Mass. Apparently, the only reason the payment (which was not listed) was disclosed was because Mass recently filed for bankruptcy. Mass' bankruptcy reflects $89,232.80 in total income for 2003. He listed three sources of income: The state of Oklahoma, Kiamichi Economic Development District of Oklahoma and American Project Development. State payroll records show he was paid $14,179 that year as a legislator, leaving $75,053.80 from the other two sources.

Labels: Mike Mass

Posted at 7/05/2006 11:47:00 AM