Bennie Thompson unites lobbyists and congressmen in Tunica

USA Today - Fine line when lobbyists, lawmakers mingle

Others include a four-day conference next month in Tunica, Miss., organized by the Congressional Black Caucus Political Education and Leadership Institute. The agenda includes policy forums, a golf outing, and a concert by hip-hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash. A recent Congressional Black Caucus Foundation event included a golf and tennis tournament at a Virginia resort and spa.

"These corporations and lobbyists lavish favor on elected officials so they can come back later on and get access," said Bob Edgar, a former Democratic congressman from Pennsylvania who is president of the watchdog group Common Cause.

Under ethics rules passed in 2007, lobbyists must report their contributions to non-profits connected to federal lawmakers twice a year. Spending in the first half of 2009 won't become public until later this month, but interviews show the donations have continued to pour in.

The Nuclear Energy Institute, for instance, is among the sponsors of the Tunica gathering, planned for Aug. 13-16.

The event is organized by Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., a member of the Congressional Black Caucus and chairman of its leadership institute, a non-profit that helps blacks get elected.

Lanier Avant, Thompson's chief of staff, said the goal is to involve a broad group in discussions about policy and economic development. The money raised helps pay for programs, such as a "boot camp" held at Morgan State University in Baltimore for candidates and campaign aides.

"If there is a trade association or a company or labor union that wants to participate, they are welcome," he said. "If there's an individual who wants to attend, they are welcome, too."

An association of rent-to-own stores donated $50,000 worth of equipment and, in exchange, sent six of its members to a June golf and tennis tournament organized by the spouses of Black Caucus members, said Richard May of the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations.

May said the group's donations supported education programs. However, he said, "the ability to be at places where we are able to be with members or others to explain our industry and demonstrate our contribution to society is an added benefit."