Tag: FedEx

Politico reports today that the American Conservative Union tried to engage in “pay to play” for its endorsement in a battle between FedEx and UPS.

According to a letter obtained by Politico, the lobbying group offered FedEx its support in exchange for $2 million. FedEx is opposing legislation that would require it to negotiate labor contracts locally, as UPS does, rather than nationally.

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After FedEx refused to pay for the ACU’s backing in the issue, the organization switched its support to UPS.

The American Conservative Union describes itself as “the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots conservative lobbying organization.” It publishes annual congressional ratings.

The group’s stated principles say it is devoted to a market economy, traditional moral values and a strong national defense.

Politico’s report indicates that the organization is also committed to a strong bottom line.

Its 2006 return, the most recent publicly available, listed annual revenue of just $1.5 million. A pay-to-play agreement from FedEx would have doubled revenues.

The American Conservative Union is headed by David A. Keene, who was national political director in George H.W. Bush’s 1980 campaign. Board members include former UN Ambassador John R. Bolton, former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay and Grover Norquist, founder of Americans for Tax Reform.

The group has close ties to the National Rifle Association, a major player in the economy of politics. Several OCA directors also sit on the NRA board or serve in other official capacities.

The NRA, however, doesn’t have the same financial needs. Its reported revenues in 2007 topped $330 million.

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