HIGoodGovWatch (@GoodGovWatch, 353 followers) and Common Cause Hawaii (@CommonCauseHI) 1,333 followers) liked this article so much they both tweeted attention to it today.

It’s by Jerry Burris in the latest Hawaii Business titled, “Lawmakers Fundraise During the Legislative Session: Despite ethical concerns, many lawmakers ask for donations during legislative sessions.”

Excerpt:

The fundraising analysis by Hawaii Business fails to show a definitive pattern of fundraising just before big hearings or important legislative votes. However, a perception persists among donors and observers that state politicians, especially committee chairmen and others with positions of power, use their influence over key legislation to leverage contributions. It’s something Sen. Les Ihara has consistently fought against – hoping to ease both the perception and the reality.