Bell, M & Hiltachk

==promoted to primary, evil pending
new tag BMH on Mcconnell v FEC

see also Hiltachk , nielsen merksamerJarvis

hijack tea party

=<div style="font-size: small; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">=</div><div style="font-size: small;"><div>A devoted Republican, Hiltachk was behind a plan to split California’s electoral votes, which would have significantly eased the Republican path to the presidency (backed by Vulture Capitalist Paul Singer, currently extorting the gov't of Argentia).</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">..."WASHINGTON -- San Joaquin Valley congressional candidate Jose Hernandez flew in space, but his astronaut identity is now under political fire.</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">In a pointed new challenge, a Sacramento law firm is asking a judge to block Hernandez from describing himself as an "astronaut/scientist/engineer" on the June ballot. The lawsuit notes Hernandez has left NASA.</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">"Hernandez's attempted use of 'astronaut' violates the Election Code's unambiguous requirement that a candidate's ballot designation reflect one's current profession, vocation, or one held during the previous calendar year," the lawsuit states.</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">The lawsuit quietly filed Wednesday in Sacramento County Superior Court by the firm Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk strikes right at the heart of Hernandez's biography. It's a life story he's making considerable use of as he seeks to challenge freshman Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Turlock...."</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
</div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">
</div><div>Ironically, BMH works often with Nielsen Merksamer, which has represented 320 ballot measure committees during the last 31 years. </div><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">=</div></div>=bshttp://www.bmhlaw.com/Founded in 1991 by Charles H. Bell, Jr. and Thomas W. Hiltachk, Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk has established itself as a leader in campaign finance and election law. Colleen McAndrews, a former Commissioner of the Fair Political Practices Commission, merged her prior practice with Bell & Hiltachk in 1993. Identified as one to the Top 100 “California Influencers” by Campaigns & Elections magazine, the firm is staffed by experienced specialists in their field.    Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP assists clients with the defense of administrative enforcement actions brought by federal, state and local governmental agencies for violations of laws involving campaigns, elections, lobbying and conflicts-of-interest. The firm also represents clients in audits of federal, state and local campaign and lobbying reports. more>>>

Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP also associates with experienced criminal law counsel in cases which raise potential issues of criminal exposure in the campaign, lobbying and conflict-of-interest areas.<div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel1" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="bell" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Charles H. Bell, Jr.
</a></h4>Mr. Bell is senior partner of Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP. He has practiced political and election law exclusively since 1980. He is one of the leading experts on the California Political Reform Act and federal and state election laws. Mr. Bell was the founding Chairman of the California Political Attorneys Association. <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more>>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel2" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="mcandrews" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Colleen C. McAndrews - Retired
</a></h4>Ms. McAndrews was a founding partner of Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP. She has retired after practicing political and election law in Southern California since 1989, initially with Simmons & McAndrews, which merged with Bell & Hiltachk in 1993. She served as a Commissioner on the Fair Political Practices Commission for six years following her appointment to the position by Governor Brown in 1977McAndrews served as a member of the National Commission on Federal Election Reform, co-chaired by former Presidents Carter and Ford, which reported to the Congress and President Bush on election reform following the 2000 election and resulted in the Help America Vote Act of 2002. She also served as a member of California Assembly Speaker Robert Hertzberg’s 2001 Commission on initiative Reform and was Co-Chair of Secretary of State Bruce McPherson’s 2006 Task Force on Online Disclosure of Campaign Finance Statements. She currently serves on the American Bar Association Standing Committee on Elections and the Campaign Disclosure Project Advisory Board..<a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more>>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel3" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="hiltachk" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Thomas W. Hiltachk
</a></h4>Mr. Hiltachk is managing partner at Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP. He has practiced political and election law exclusively since 1988. Prior to that, he was an attorney with a general civil litigation firm in Sacramento. He has served as legal counsel and treasurer to statewide and local ballot measure committees, political action committees, trade associations and candidates. He has represented state ballot measure committees on a variety of issues, including tax policy, the environment, education, civil and criminal justice reform and gaming. He has served as legal counsel to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more >>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel4" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="gough" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;"></a><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Paul T. Gough</a></h4>Mr. Gough has been Of Counsel to Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP since 2002 and is based in Los Angeles. Prior to joining the firm, he was a partner in the Los Angeles law firm of Straw & Gough where he had a litigation and appellate practice representing clients in business, environmental, political and entertainment matters. From 1978 to 1987, Mr. Gough was the Litigation Manager for the Western Region of Mobil Oil Corporation which included California and 6 other western states. In that position he was responsible for overseeing the defense and prosecution of all Mobil Oil Corporation litigation and appeals in the entire region. <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more >>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel5" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;">Mr. Gough has over 30 years of litigation experience including cases involving the Political Reform Act, initiative and referendum, voter registration, ballot arguments, and Propositions 13, 218 and 62. Mr. Gough is currently representing the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association in a case pending in the Second District Court of Appeal challenging the constitutionality of Proposition 13. Mr. Gough has represented clients in numerous state and federal appeals including reported decisions involving the Political Reform Act, FOIA, CEQA and Proposition 62.Mr. Gough is admitted to practice in California, all United States District Courts in the State of California and the Ninth Circuit. He is a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and received his Juris Doctor from Case Western Reserve University Law School where he was a member of the Law Review.</h4><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;">
</h4><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Brian T. Hildreth</a></h4>Mr. Hildreth is a partner with Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP. He maintains a nationwide practice advising corporations, candidates, political action committees (PACs), major campaign donors, trade associations, and state and local ballot measure committees in the areas of political and election law. He specializes in campaign, initiative and constitutional law and related litigation in federal, state and local jurisdictions. <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more >>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel9" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"> Hildreth previously served in the administration of Governor Pete Wilson as a Special Assistant in the Governor's State Capitol office in Sacramento. He also formerly worked as government relations counsel for the Northrop Grumman Corporation at its headquarters in Los Angeles. More recently, Mr. Hildreth was an associate with Jackson Lewis LLP, a national law firm representing management in employment and labor litigation matters. He was previously associated with Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk from 2002 to 2004.Mr. Hildreth received his law degree from The Tulane University School of Law where he served as the editor-in-chief of the Tulane Journal of International and Comparative Law, and as a senior teaching fellow for the law school's legal writing and research program. He also holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration from the University of California, Berkeley.</h4><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Sarah Lang</a></h4>Ms. Lang maintains a nationwide practice focused on advising candidates, political parties, political action committees (PACs), corporations, major campaign donors, and state and local ballot measure committees in the areas of political and election law. Ms. Lang also counsels lobbyists, lobbyist employers, lobbying firms, and public officials regarding compliance with disclosure and gift laws.<a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;"> more >>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel6" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="martin" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Audrey Perry Martin</a></h4>Audrey Perry Martin is Of Counsel to Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP. Her practice is focused on advising corporations, candidates, political action committees (PACs), political parties, major campaign donors and state and local ballot measure committees in the areas of political and election law.<a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;"> more >>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel7" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="naylor" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Robert W. Naylor</a></h4>Mr. Naylor is Of Counsel to Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP. Mr. Naylor has been active in politics and government since the time he was editor of the Stanford Daily in 1964. A native of Nevada, Mr. Naylor graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Stanford University in 1966 and later from Yale Law School. He served as Lieutenant in the United States Army, including service in Vietnam. <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more >>></a></div></div><div class="line" style="line-height: 0; clear: both; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; background-image: url(" images="images" line.png="line.png" background-position="background-position" background-repeat="background-repeat" repeat-x="repeat-x"><div id="CollapsiblePanel8" class="CollapsiblePanel CollapsiblePanelClosed CollapsiblePanelFocused" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><div class="CollapsiblePanelTab" tabindex="0" style="font-weight: bold; font-stretch: normal; margin: 0px; padding: 2px; cursor: pointer; outline-style: none;"><h4 style="line-height: 22px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: italic;"><a name="titus" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none; font-style: normal;">Ashlee N. Titus</a></h4>Ms. Titus, a partner with Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP, maintains a nationwide practice advising corporations, candidates, political action committees (PACs), major campaign donors, lobbyists, trade associations, and state and local ballot measure committees in the areas of political and election law. <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/attorneys.php#" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">more </a><a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/ashlee-titus.php" style="outline: none; line-height: 22px; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 6px; text-decoration: none;">>>></a></div></div>bs bio<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><tbody><tr valign="Top"><td>Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP
General Counsel, California Republican Party and RNLA Past - President
Advisory Council
Office: <div class="indent">455 Capitol Mall
Suite 600
Sacramento, CA 95814</div>
Phone: 916 442-7757
Fax: 916 442-7759
Email: <a href="mailto:cbell@bmhlaw.com">cbell@bmhlaw.com</a>
Web Site: <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com" target="new">www.bmhlaw.com</a>Law School: Stanford (1974)<div class="bold">Practice Areas:</div><div class="indent"><a href="https://www.rnla.org/Bio/PracticeAreas.asp?PracticeID=2">1st Amendment</a>
<a href="https://www.rnla.org/Bio/PracticeAreas.asp?PracticeID=6">Appellate</a>
<a href="https://www.rnla.org/Bio/PracticeAreas.asp?PracticeID=33">Election Law</a></div></td><td width="1%"><img src="https://www.rnla.org/bio/images/1PIXEL.GIF" border="0" height="1" hspace="15" width="1" /></td><td align="left" valign="top">

<img src="https://www.rnla.org/images/CHB.jpg" alt="Mr. Charles H. Bell, Jr." border="0" height="120" width="100" /></td></tr><tr><td colspan="4" align="left" valign="top">
Mr.

Bell is the senior partner in the law firm of Bell, McAndrews &

Hiltachk, LLP., of Sacramento and Los Angeles, California, and is

resident in the firm’s Sacramento office.

Mr. Bell has practiced political and election law exclusively since 1980.

Mr. Bell is the General Counsel to the California Republican

Party, and has served in that role for 30 of the past 35 years. He has

counseled many California candidates and officeholders, including

current Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, former Governors Pete

Wilson and George Deukmejian, Attorney General Dan Lungren, and many of

the State Assembly and Senate Republican Leaders since 1980. Mr. Bell

also has represented the Republican National Committee,the Republican

Senatorial Campaign Committee and the Republican Congressional Campaign

Committee on California matters, as well as a number of federal

candidates and officeholders. Mr. Bell has served as counsel to

numerous political action committees, lobbyists and lobbying firms,

corporations and trade associations.

Mr. Bell served as coordinator of litigation concerning the 2003

California gubernatorial recall. In this role, he coordinated the

filing of two lawsuits and the defense of eleven other lawsuits, in all

California federal courts, including the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals,

in the California Supreme Court, two state appellate courts, and two

trial courts.

In 2004, Mr. Bell served as a National Co-Chairman of Lawyers for

Romney, and its California Co-Chairman. He served as a California

Co-Chairman of Lawyers for Bush-Cheney, in 2000 and 2004. He served in

2008 as California Chairman of Lawyers for McCain-Palin and a member of

the McCain-Palin National Legal Steering Committee. He served from

2001-2009 as President Bush’s Chairman of the Eastern District

Subcommittee of the California Judicial Advisory Committee, responsible

to recommend candidates for U.S. District Court judges, U.S. Attorney

and U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of California.

Mr. Bell has lectured on California campaign finance reform and

redistricting, and has authored a number of articles in legal journals

and newspaper op-ed pages concerning political and election issues. He

has participated in litigation in the California state appellate courts

and Supreme Court concerning more than a dozen state ballot

propositions. He has also participated in appellate litigation in the

California state and federal courts and in the United States Supreme

Court concerning redistricting, the regulation of political parties, and

freedom of speech issues, including California Democratic Party v.

Jones (2000) and McConnell v. Federal Election Commission, 2003, the

constitutional challenge to the Bi-Partisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002,

and Crawford v. Marion County Election Board (2008). Mr. Bell has

also been involved in significant election litigation, and election

contests and recounts. He is the author of “California Campaign Finance

and Lobbying Regulation: A Summary of Major Initiatives, Litigation,

and Current Law” (2001) and was a co-editor of “California Election Law

Primer” (1998 ed.).
 His published articles include “The Open Primary

Case: California Democratic Party v. Jones,” Fall 2000 Issue, Free

Speech and Election Law News, The Federalist Society for Law and Public

Policy Studies, Washington, D.C.;

“Proposition 226 ‘Paycheck Protection'-- the California Experience,”

Fall 1998 Issue Free Speech and Election Law News, The Federalist

Society for Law and Public Policy Studies, Washington, D.C.; and “A

Practitioner's Viewpoint on the Colorado Republican Federal Campaign

Committee v. Federal Election Commission Decision,” October 1996 Issue,

Free Speech and Election Law News, The Federalist Society for Law and

Public Policy Studies, Washington, D.C..

Mr. Bell is a graduate of Stanford University (A.B. 1968) and the

Stanford Law School (J.D. 1974). He served as Counsel in the Office of

General Counsel, Federal Communications Commission, from 1974 to 1976,

participating in policy and appellate litigation matters, including

political broadcasting issues involving the fairness doctrine, equal

time for political candidates, and television violence.

Mr. Bell currently serves as a Member of the American Bar

Association's Standing Committee on Election Law and previously served

as a consultant and liaison to that Committee. He served as a volunteer

attorney with the International Republican Institute’s South African

Election Project in Johannesburg, South Africa, during that country’s

1994 all-race election.

Mr. Bell is a member, and served as the founding chairman of the

California Political Attorneys' Association. He served as President

(2009-2010) and First Vice President (2007-2008) and as a member of the

Board of Governors, and currently serves as the General Counsel to the

Republican National Lawyers' Association, Washington, D.C., and as a

director and a former two term Chairman of the Federalist Society of

Sacramento, and as a Vice Chairman of the Free Speech and Election Law

Practice Group of The Federalist Society for Law and Policy, Washington,

D.C.

Mr. Bell serves as Treasurer and director of the Ronald Reagan

Centennial Capitol Foundation, which commissioned and placed a statue of

President Ronald Reagan at the California State Capitol, and the

Sacramento Federal Judicial Library and Learning Center Foundation,

which operates the Justice Anthony M. Kennedy Library and Learning

Center, Sacramento, California.

Mr. Bell is 68, resides in Halcyon, California, is married to

Janice Freeman Bell, and has two children, Brien (30) and Jennifer Bell

Roe (28).</td></tr></tbody></table>
 California Alliance of Taxpayer Advocates (CATA). cut dues 1/2 2015http://www.cataxadvocates.org/sites/default/files/CATA-2015-Presidents-Letter.pdfPAC sean c kelley

<a href="http://cahupac.org/">http://cahupac.org/</a>

CAHU-PAC, was established in 1992 as the political action committee associated with the California Association of Health Underwriters (CAHU). Its mission is to facilitate, with strategically targeted political contributions, the legislative and advocacy program of CAHU with a primary emphasis on supporting the role of the agent in the delivery of private health insurance.

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<a href="http://www.aavoice.org/">http://www.aavoice.org/</a>

Asian American VOICE is a 501(c)(4) non-profit organization dedicated to making sure Asian Americans in Southern California are engaged in public policy discussions and aware of public policy issues impacting their community. According to data provided by Political Data Inc., there are at least 200,000 Asian-Americans of voter age living in Orange and Los Angeles Counties who are not currently registered to vote. A large majority of these potential voters are Vietnamese-American, with Korean-American and Chinese-Americans making up the bulk of the remainder. One goal of Asian American VOICE is to encourage greater voter participation in the Asian American community.

The goal of Asian American VOICE is to register Asian American voters and inform and educate the Asian American community on the importance of engaging in public policy discussions.

Asian American VOICE will hold a series of Town Hall Meeting with leaders of the Asian American community, educate Asian Americans through direct contact, mail, newspaper advertising and electronic media, and register voters.

Asian American VOICE’s budget for this program is $250,000 for 2016.

A full-time Vietnamese-American manager will direct the program.

Asian American VOICE has retained the law firm of Bell McAndrews and Hiltachk to ensure compliance with all federal, state and local laws

---

<a href="http://prosperityandaccountability.org/">http://prosperityandaccountability.org/</a>

one off?

Bill Cizmadia, President – Council on Prosperity and Accountability

California’s casinos and card rooms are among the state’s most heavily regulated industries. Every aspect of a casino’s operation, from its card-handling to its security procedures, is subject to oversight and review from the state’s Gambling Control Commission. These regulations are vital in ensuring that organized crime and violent gangs don’t seize upon the millions of dollars that flow through a casino’s doors every week.

But, one California card room isn’t subject to the same level of scrutiny as the state’s other gambling operations. The San Pablo Casino, owned by the Lytton Band of Pomo Indians, is the only card room in the state that is operated by a Native American tribe. Consequently, it operates in a gray area— more than just a card room but not quite a traditional Indian casino.

This special status allows San Pablo to circumvent the state rules and strict oversight applied to every other casino and card room in the state. It’s a consequence of a provision snuck into an omnibus bill by Rep. George Miller, D-Martinez. The legislative language retroactively granted the tribe a compact, allowed it to take over an existing card room and effectively sidestepped the normal regulatory process.

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salmon

<div class="result__snippet">Colusa Basin Drain Adult Salmonid Barrier Project Submitted By: David R. Schuster Surface Water Resources. Inc. 455 Capitol Mall, Suite 600 Sacramento CA 95814</div>

<div class="resultextrasurl"><a title="Search domain www.calwater.ca.gov" href="https://duckduckgo.com/?q=455%20Capitol%20Mall%2C%20Suite%20600%20site%3Awww.calwater.ca.gov&t=ffsb"><img src="/4e3fe2cd-62d3-5e0c-a8f2-32e5c4e9a288.ico"/></a><a href="http://www.calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/I-013324.pdf" class="resulturl">calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/I-013324.pdf</a></div>

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</div>

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<h2 class="resulttitle"><a href="http://www.calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/I-006689.pdf" class="resulta"> Sacramento Are3 Flood Control JUL 2 8 1997 J'uly 28, 1997</a><a href="http://www.calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/I-006689.pdf" class="result__check"> </a></h2>

<div class="result__snippet">Sacramento Are3 Flood Control JUL 2 8 1997 ... 1416 Ninth Street, Suite 1155 Sacramento, CA 95814 Subject: Proposals to Establish Comprehensive Management Program and Four ... 455 Capitol Mall, Suite 600 2600 V Street Sacramento, CA 95814 Sacramento, CA 95818 Phone: ...</div>

<div class="resultextrasurl"><a title="Search domain www.calwater.ca.gov" href="https://duckduckgo.com/?q=455%20Capitol%20Mall%2C%20Suite%20600%20site%3Awww.calwater.ca.gov&t=ffsb"><img src="/0f65985d-7007-5e3d-ba61-c31725af80ca.ico"/></a><a href="http://www.calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/I-006689.pdf" class="resulturl">calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/I-006689.pdf</a></div>

</div>

</div>

</div>

</div>

<h2 class="resulttitle" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><a href="http://www.calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/C-089696.pdf" class="resulta"> County of Sacramento - calwater.ca.gov</a><a href="http://www.calwater.ca.gov/Admin_Record/C-089696.pdf" class="result__check"> </a></h2>

<div class="result__snippet" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">455 Capitol Mall, Suite 600 Sacramento, California 95814 I Contact: Paul Bratovich, Project Director Robert Shibatani, Project Manager C--089698 C-089698! I T,_BLE OF CONTENTS I I The Final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) under consideration by lead</div>

==

527

<a href="http://goldenstatevoter.org/about/">http://goldenstatevoter.org/about/</a>

Built from the 2009-2014 successes, GSVPP integrates new technology and methods to be efficient and creative. From knocking door-to-door to online voter engagement, GSVPP can meet any criteria and any challenge to effectively engage and register voters.

With annual budgets exceeding $2 million each cycle, GSVPP works in 12 districts on average with approximately 15 programs per cycle and 25-350 canvassers working at any given time. GSVPP has successfully registered over 160,000 voters and in addition identified over 400,000 each cycle.

Golden State Voter Participation Project is a General Purpose Non-Candidate Committee.  Donations are reportable and can be received from any type of donor with NO contribution limits.

===

jarvis prop 49

On August 8, 2014, I served true copies of the following: AMICUS LETTER IN

OPPOSITION TO PETITION on the below listed counsel by electronic mail, PDF

format or by fax, as indicated:

Charles H. Bell (SBN 060553)

Thomas W. Hiltachk (SBN 131215)

Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk

455 Capitol Mall, Suite 600

Sacramento, CA 95814

Via telefax: 916 442 7759

(Attorneys for Petitioners);

Robbie Anderson

1500 11th St., 5th Floor

Sacramento, CA 958145

Via email:

randerson@sos.ca.gov

(Attorney for Respondent)

==

<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,LLP">http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,LLP</a>

CA power grab http://thinkprogress.org/2007/09/04/ca-ballot/

</div>

Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP (BM&H) "specializes in campaign, election and administrative law and litigation at all levels of government." <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.bmhlaw.com/" rel="nofollow">[1]</a>

<h2>Contents</h2>

[<a id="togglelink" href="javascript:toggleToc()" class="internal">hide</a>]</div>

<ul>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP#Principals">1 Principals</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP#Representing_Front_Groups">2 Representing Front Groups</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,LLP#Propositions.26_Recalls">3 Propositions & Recalls</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP#Other_Clients">4 Other Clients</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP#Contact_Information">5 Contact Information</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP#Related_SourceWatch_Resources">6 Related SourceWatch Resources</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP#External_links">7 External links</a></li>

</ul>

</td></tr></tbody></table>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Principals</h2>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Charles_H.Bell,Jr.&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Charles H. Bell, Jr. (page does not exist)">Charles H. Bell, Jr.</a>, partner (<a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/partners.htm#cbell" class="external text" title="http://www.bmhlaw.com/partners.htm#cbell" rel="nofollow">profile</a>):</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>"General Counsel for the California Republican Party" <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" rel="nofollow">[2]</a></li>

<li>"Vice Chairman of The <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Federalist_Society" class="mw-redirect" title="Federalist Society">Federalist Society</a>'s free speech and election law practice group" <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.bmhlaw.com/" rel="nofollow">[3]</a> and "the <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Republican_National_Lawyers_Association" title="Republican National Lawyers Association">Republican National Lawyers Association</a>'s vice president for the election education advisory council." <a href="http://www.wmaz.com/redesign/web/news/top_story.aspx?storyid=29528" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.wmaz.com/redesign/web/news/top_story.aspx?storyid=29528" rel="nofollow">[4]</a></li>

<li>Listed as treasurer for the "US Senator <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_F.Seymour" class="external text" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_F.Seymour" rel="nofollow">John F. Seymour</a> Committee." <a href="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C00250480" class="external autonumber" title="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C00250480" rel="nofollow">[5]</a><a href="http://www.campaignmoney.com/candidate.asp?id=S2CA00310&cycle=04" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.campaignmoney.com/candidate.asp?id=S2CA00310&cycle=04" rel="nofollow">[6]</a></li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Thomas_W._Hiltachk" title="Thomas W. Hiltachk">Thomas W. Hiltachk</a>, partner:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>"Republican lawyer who works as legal counsel to Gov. <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Arnold_Schwarzenegger" title="Arnold Schwarzenegger">Arnold Schwarzenegger</a> has filed an initiative that would raise the minimum wage--but also abolish the eight-hour day for overtime."—Capitol Weekly, February 21, 2006. <a href="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=517" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=517" rel="nofollow">[7]</a></li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Colleen_McAndrews&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Colleen McAndrews (page does not exist)">Colleen McAndrews</a>, partner:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>Appointed and served 1977-2003 as a commissioner on the California Fair Political Practices Commission. "McAndrews has served as legal counsel and treasurer to state and local <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Political_action_committee" title="Political action committee">political action committees</a>, as well as candidates and ballot measure committees. She served as an official United States observer of the Russian elections in 1993. She also trained emerging political parties in Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic prior to their first democratic elections. She recently concluded service on the Speaker’s Commission on the California Initiative." <a href="http://www.tcf.org/Publications/ElectionReform/NCFER/about.pdf" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.tcf.org/Publications/ElectionReform/NCFER/about.pdf" rel="nofollow">[8]</a></li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Representing Front Groups</h2>

<li>Dave Johnson <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-johnson/new-frontgroup-alert-ec_b_29545.html" class="external text" title="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-johnson/new-frontgroup-alert-ec_b_29545.html" rel="nofollow">reported</a> in his September 15, 2006 The Huffington Post article on new MB&H client <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund" title="Economic Freedom Fund">Economic Freedom Fund</a> that other Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk's clients include:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li><a href="http://www.caltba.org/" class="external text" title="http://www.caltba.org/" rel="nofollow">California Tribal Business Alliance</a>—"an 'Indian Gaming' organization" whose "<a href="http://www.caltba.org/philosophy-1.html" class="external text" title="http://www.caltba.org/philosophy-1.html" rel="nofollow">mission statement</a> is 'to safeguard and enhance the success of the business enterprises of our tribal government members' ....... and 'will foster business development and coalition building with like minded government and business leaders in California.'" (Also <a href="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/expenditures.php?committee=1270258" class="external text" title="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/expenditures.php?committee=1270258" rel="nofollow">see this</a>.)</li>

<li>

</li><li>"Californians for Paycheck Protection—yet another <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Front_group" class="mw-redirect" title="Front group">front group</a>—this one sponsoring a California anti-union ballot initiative. (Their major funders in 2005 (<a href="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/lookup.php?committee=1277460" class="external text" title="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/lookup.php?committee=1277460" rel="nofollow">go see how much</a>) included the Chamber of Commerce and the California Republican Party.)" (Also <a href="http://www.electiontrack.com/expenditures.php?committee=1277460" class="external text" title="http://www.electiontrack.com/expenditures.php?committee=1277460" rel="nofollow">see this</a>.)</li>

<li>"notorious anti-environmental Congressman <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Richard_Pombo" title="Richard Pombo">Richard Pombo</a>." (See <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/politicians/expendetail.asp?CID=N00007516&cycle=2006&name=Bell%2C+Mcandrews+%26+Hiltachk" class="external text" title="http://www.opensecrets.org/politicians/expendetail.asp?CID=N00007516&cycle=2006&name=Bell%2C+Mcandrews+%26+Hiltachk" rel="nofollow">here</a>.)</li>

<li>

</li><li>"<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Tobacco_industry" title="Tobacco industry">big tobacco</a>", with BM&H as "<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Philip_Morris" class="mw-redirect" title="Philip Morris">Philip Morris</a> Outside Counsel" (See <a href="http://www.pmdocs.com/PRIVLOGS/Clog/Clog/B.html" class="external text" title="http://www.pmdocs.com/PRIVLOGS/Clog/Clog/B.html" rel="nofollow">this</a>.)</li>

<li>

</li><li>"A different partner at this firm, Thomas Hiltachk, filed the 'Fair Pay Workplace Flexibility Act of 2006'—a stealth attempt to get rid of California's overtime rules."</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

BM&H LLC has also "fronted" for:

<li>Californians for Schwarzenegger, "a committee formed to promote the election of Governor Schwarzenegger during the recall election of 2003." <a href="http://www.fppc.ca.gov/letters/04/04223.pdf" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.fppc.ca.gov/letters/04/04223.pdf" rel="nofollow">[9]</a></li>

</ul>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Chico_Greenline_Coalition&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Chico Greenline Coalition (page does not exist)">Chico Greenline Coalition</a> <a href="http://www.chicogreenline.com/" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.chicogreenline.com/" rel="nofollow">[10]</a><a href="http://www.norcalblogs.com/commission/archives/2006/05/who_are_the_chi.html" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.norcalblogs.com/commission/archives/2006/05/who_are_the_chi.html" rel="nofollow">[11]</a><a href="http://www.norcalblogs.com/commission/archives/2006/05/is_the_chico_gr.html" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.norcalblogs.com/commission/archives/2006/05/is_the_chico_gr.html" rel="nofollow">[12]</a> at the Sacramento address, with Thomas W. Hiltachk as Treasurer. <a href="http://64.233.161.104/search?q=cache:VMio9XqNvgIJ:www.chicogreenline.com/Docs/CGC%2520Form%2520460.pdf+%22Cardinal+Communication+Strategies%22&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=11" class="external autonumber" title="http://64.233.161.104/search?q=cache:VMio9XqNvgIJ:www.chicogreenline.com/Docs/CGC%2520Form%2520460.pdf+%22Cardinal+Communication+Strategies%22&hl=en&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=11" rel="nofollow">[13]</a></li>

</ul>

<li>Citizens Against Measure R, a California group "sponsored by and with Major Funding provided by <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Wal-Mart_Stores" title="Wal-Mart Stores">Wal-Mart Stores</a>, Inc.", used Bell's Sacramento office address in 2005. <a href="http://publicdocs.lodi.gov/Docs/CAMPAIGN_FILINGS/2005/elect460q.pdf#search=%22%22455%20Capital%20Mall%22%2C%20Suite%20801%2C%20Sacramento%22" class="external autonumber" title="http://publicdocs.lodi.gov/Docs/CAMPAIGN_FILINGS/2005/elect460q.pdf#search=%22%22455%20Capital%20Mall%22%2C%20Suite%20801%2C%20Sacramento%22" rel="nofollow">[14]</a></li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>Note: The LA Voice <a href="http://www.lavoice.org/article2187.html" class="external text" title="http://www.lavoice.org/article2187.html" rel="nofollow">reported</a> September 7, 2006, that "Judge Robert H. O'Brien ordered that Measure R - the term limits extension/ethics revision package - be removed from the November ballot because it improperly combines multiple subjects in a single question." Charles H. Bell Jr. "called the judge's decision a win for voters."</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>Californians For A Fair Business Policy, a "<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Tobacco_Institute" title="Tobacco Institute">Tobacco Institute</a>-created front group in California" at BM&H's Santa Monica address fought "local efforts to enact smoke-free bans in California in the early 1990s" and "Conducted referenda on existing bans." <a href="http://tobaccodocuments.org/nysa_ti_s2/TI35950542.html" class="external autonumber" title="http://tobaccodocuments.org/nysa_ti_s2/TI35950542.html" rel="nofollow">[15]</a></li>

</ul>

<li>Employees of Northrop Grumman PAC, using BM&H's Santa Monica address, contributed to Sen. <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bill_McCollum" title="Bill McCollum">Bill McCollum</a>'s Florida campaign in 2000. <a href="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/senate/sforms/C00166041/23/sa/11C" class="external autonumber" title="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/senate/sforms/C00166041/23/sa/11C" rel="nofollow">[16]</a></li>

</ul>

<li>First Federal Bank of California PAC, which received <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C00137158" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C00137158" rel="nofollow">termination approval</a> in January 2006, received two contributions in 2003 and 2004 at BM&H's Santa Monica address. <a href="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/com_supopp/2003_C00137158" class="external autonumber" title="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/com_supopp/2003_C00137158" rel="nofollow">[17]</a></li>

</ul>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Global_Crossing_Development_Corporation" title="Global Crossing Development Corporation">Global Crossing Development Corporation</a> PAC used the Santa Monica address 1997 through 2005 to make <a href="http://herndon1.sdrdc.com/cgi-bin/com_supopp/C00258210/" class="external text" title="http://herndon1.sdrdc.com/cgi-bin/com_supopp/C00258210/" rel="nofollow">contributions</a>, including $10,000 in 2001 to <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=George_W.Bush" class="mw-redirect" title="George W. Bush">George W. Bush</a>'s "President's Dinner Committee" and a number of current and former political candidates, including <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=George_Allen" title="George Allen">George Allen</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=John_Ashcroft" class="mw-redirect" title="John Ashcroft">John Ashcroft</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Sherrod_Brown" title="Sherrod Brown">Sherrod Brown</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Sam_Brownback" title="Sam Brownback">Sam Brownback</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Conrad_Burns" title="Conrad Burns" style=" background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102);">Conrad Burns</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Eric_Cantor" title="Eric Cantor">Eric Cantor</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Maria_Cantwell" title="Maria Cantwell">Maria Cantwell</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Max_Cleland" title="Max Cleland">Max Cleland</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Tom_Davis" title="Tom Davis">Tom Davis</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Harold_Ford,Jr." class="mw-redirect" title="Harold Ford, Jr.">Harold Ford, Jr.</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Chuck_Grassley" class="mw-redirect" title="Chuck Grassley">Chuck Grassley</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Judd_Gregg" title="Judd Gregg">Judd Gregg</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Dennis_Hastert" title="Dennis Hastert">Dennis Hastert</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Daniel_Inouye" class="mw-redirect" title="Daniel Inouye">Daniel Inouye</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Rick_Lazio" class="mw-redirect" title="Rick Lazio">Rick Lazio</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Carl_Levin" title="Carl Levin">Carl Levin</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bill_Luther&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Bill Luther (page does not exist)">Bill Luther</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=John_McCain" title="John McCain">John McCain</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Zell_Miller" title="Zell Miller">Zell Miller</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Jim_Nussle" title="Jim Nussle">Jim Nussle</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Charles_W.Pickering" class="mw-redirect" title="Charles W. Pickering">Charles W. Pickering</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Jack_Reed" title="Jack Reed">Jack Reed</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Tom_Reynolds" title="Tom Reynolds">Tom Reynolds</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Jay_Rockefeller" class="mw-redirect" title="Jay Rockefeller">Jay Rockefeller</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Chuck_Schumer" title="Chuck Schumer">Chuck Schumer</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Louise_Slaughter" title="Louise Slaughter">Louise Slaughter</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Billy_Tauzin" title="Billy Tauzin">Billy Tauzin</a>, <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Henry_A.Waxman" title="Henry A. Waxman">Henry A. Waxman</a>, and <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Heather_Wilson" title="Heather Wilson">Heather Wilson</a>.</li>

</ul>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Propositions & Recalls</h2>

In 2003, then known as Bellow, McAndrews, Hitachk & Davidian LLP, Bell and partner Thomas W. Hitachk <a href="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=%22Charles+H.+Bell%22%2C+California&btnG=Search" class="external text" title="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&q=%22Charles+H.+Bell%22%2C+California&btnG=Search" rel="nofollow">represented</a><a href="http://fl1.findlaw.com/news.findlaw.com/hdocs/docs/elections/svrepvshlly81503ami.pdf" class="external autonumber" title="http://fl1.findlaw.com/news.findlaw.com/hdocs/docs/elections/svrepvshlly81503ami.pdf" rel="nofollow">[18]</a> <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Ted_Costa" title="Ted Costa">Ted Costa</a>, who filed the petition and <a href="http://www.nndb.com/people/003/000099703/" class="external text" title="http://www.nndb.com/people/003/000099703/" rel="nofollow">"Drove the 2003 California recall election"</a> against then-Governor <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Gray_Davis" title="Gray Davis">Gray Davis</a>.

At a 2003 "hearing on the campaign tactics of the No on Measure JJ," James Allardice <a href="http://www.laane.org/pressroom/stories/smart/sm030226smmirror.html" class="external text" title="http://www.laane.org/pressroom/stories/smart/sm030226smmirror.html" rel="nofollow">reported</a> in the Santa Monica Mirror, "[t]hree months after Santa Monica's Living Wage ordinance was overturned at the polls," Kent Wong, "Director of the UCLA Labor Studies Center, tied the No on JJ campaign to several consulting firms—most notably The <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Dolphin_Group" title="Dolphin Group">Dolphin Group</a>." <a href="http://www.laane.org/pressroom/stories/smart/sm030226smmirror.html" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.laane.org/pressroom/stories/smart/sm030226smmirror.html" rel="nofollow">[19]</a>

"The Dolphin Group, which is based in Westwood, is best-known for the Willie Horton ads used by <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=George_H.W._Bush" class="mw-redirect" title="George H.W. Bush">George H.W. Bush</a>'s presidential campaign in 1988," Allardice wrote.

"Wong singled out the law firms of Neilson, Merksamer, Parrinello, Mueller and Naylor and Bell, McAndrews, Hiltachk, and Davidian and two individuals—James Lacy and William 'Lord' Butcher—whom, he argued, along with the Dolphin Group, had played significant roles in the passage of Propositions 13 and 188, the election of Govenors George Deukmejian and Pete Wilson and the recall of three state Supreme Court Justices."

"Represents Citizens for Jobs and Fair Competitions in a suit against the City of Chula Vista CIty Clerk and the San Diego Registrar of voters. Citizens for Jobs and Fair Competition is a front group for the Assocated Builders and Contractors (ABC)."

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Other Clients</h2>

<li>Alatorre City Council Fund <a href="http://ethics.lacity.org/efs/public_rpt_sf.cfm?doc_id=586&city=la" class="external autonumber" title="http://ethics.lacity.org/efs/public_rpt_sf.cfm?doc_id=586&city=la" rel="nofollow">[20]</a></li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Beth_Rogers&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Beth Rogers (page does not exist)">Beth Rogers</a> (R-CA) <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/races/expend.asp?CID=N00024886&Cycle=2002&ID=CA23" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.opensecrets.org/races/expend.asp?CID=N00024886&Cycle=2002&ID=CA23" rel="nofollow">[21]</a></li>

<li>Bill Jones for U.S. Senate <a href="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/senate/sforms/C00393785/107/sd/10" class="external autonumber" title="http://query.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/senate/sforms/C00393785/107/sd/10" rel="nofollow">[22]</a></li>

<li>Maureen Reagan for Congress in 1993-1994. <a href="http://cspan.politicalmoneyline.com/cgi-win/x_candpg.exe?DoFn=H2CA36058994" class="external autonumber" title="http://cspan.politicalmoneyline.com/cgi-win/x_candpg.exe?DoFn=H2CA36058994" rel="nofollow">[23]</a></li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=No_New_Taxes_%28HJTA%29&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="No New Taxes (HJTA) (page does not exist)">No New Taxes</a>, A Project of the <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Howard_Jarvis_Taxpayers_Association&action=edit&redlink=1" class="new" title="Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association (page does not exist)">Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association</a> <a href="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/expenditures.php?committee=1057045" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/expenditures.php?committee=1057045" rel="nofollow">[24]</a></li>

<li>Rescue California from Budget Deficits, a Committee Controlled by John Campbell <a href="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/expenditures.php?committee=1262101" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/expenditures.php?committee=1262101" rel="nofollow">[25]</a></li>

<li>Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of the "Yes on Q & R" campaign <a href="http://sacramento.bizjournals.com/sacramento/stories/2006/08/07/daily19.html" class="external autonumber" title="http://sacramento.bizjournals.com/sacramento/stories/2006/08/07/daily19.html" rel="nofollow">[26]</a></li>

<li>Taxpayers for Roger Niello for Assembly <a href="http://www.electiontrack.com/expenditures.php?committee=1251987" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.electiontrack.com/expenditures.php?committee=1251987" rel="nofollow">[27]</a></li>

</ul>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Contact Information</h2>

Main Office: Sacramento:

455 Capitol Mall

Suite 801

Sacramento, California 95814

Phone: 916 442-7757 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              916 442-7757      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

FAX: 916 442-7759

Santa Monica Office:

1441 Fourth Street

Santa Monica, California 90401

Phone: 310 458-1405 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              310 458-1405      end_of_the_skype_highlighting

FAX: 310 260-2666

Website: <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com" class="external free" title="http://www.bmhlaw.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.bmhlaw.com</a>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Related SourceWatch Resources</h2>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund" title="Economic Freedom Fund">Economic Freedom Fund</a></li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Meridian_Pacific,_Inc." title="Meridian Pacific, Inc.">Meridian Pacific, Inc.</a> (and Cardinal Communication Strategies)</li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Stevens_Reed_Curcio_%26_Potholm" title="Stevens Reed Curcio & Potholm">Stevens Reed Curcio & Potholm</a></li>

</ul>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">External links</h2>

<li>James Allardice <a href="http://www.laane.org/pressroom/stories/smart/sm030226smmirror.html" class="external text" title="http://www.laane.org/pressroom/stories/smart/sm030226smmirror.html" rel="nofollow">"Panel Hears Claims That Prop JJ Contest Was Tainted,"</a> Santa Monica Mirror, February 26-March 4, 2003.</li>

<li>Kim Zetter, <a href="http://www.wired.com/news/business/0,61379-1.html?tw=wn_story_page_next1" class="external text" title="http://www.wired.com/news/business/0,61379-1.html?tw=wn_story_page_next1" rel="nofollow">"Dust-Up Over E-Vote Paper Trail,"</a> Wired News, November 26, 2003.</li>

<li>Andy Furillo and Gary Delsohn, <a href="http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/nw/?postId=965&pageTitle=Drug+companies+approve+%2410+million+for+California+ballot+fight" class="external text" title="http://www.consumerwatchdog.org/nw/?postId=965&pageTitle=Drug+companies+approve+%2410+million+for+California+ballot+fight" rel="nofollow">"Drug companies approve $10 million for California ballot fight,"</a> Sacramento Bee (ConsumerWatchdog.org), February 14, 2005.</li>

<li>Malcolm Maclachlan, <a href="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=517" class="external text" title="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=517" rel="nofollow">"GOP attorney files initiative to boost minimum wage, cut overtime,"</a> Capitol Weekly, February 21, 2006.</li>

<li>Steve Hymon, <a href="http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-termlimits29aug29,1,7381620.story" class="external text" title="http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-termlimits29aug29,1,7381620.story" rel="nofollow">"Term Limits Measure Targeted. A second suit will argue that city ballot proposal to ease curbs on council members is illegal because it also proposes restrictions on lobbyists,"</a> Los Angeles Times, August 29, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://cbs2.com/topstories/local_story_242100218.html" class="external text" title="http://cbs2.com/topstories/local_story_242100218.html" rel="nofollow">"Term Limit Ballot Measure Could Cost Taxpayers,"</a> CBS2.com (Los Angeles, CA), August 30, 2006.</li>

<li>Justin Rood, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" rel="nofollow">"New GOP Attack Group Used Ad Firm with Party Ties,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 14, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat Redux: Wealthy GOP Donor Drops $5 Mil for New Group"</a> and <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001520.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001520.php" rel="nofollow">"Shadowy 527 Behind Calls Hitting Democrats in Several States,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 14, 2006.</li>

<li>Dave Johnson, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-johnson/new-frontgroup-alert-ec_b_29545.html" class="external text" title="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-johnson/new-frontgroup-alert-ec_b_29545.html" rel="nofollow">"New Front-Group Alert: Economic Freedom Fund,"</a> The Huffington Post and <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/new_frontgroup_1.php" class="external text" title="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/new_frontgroup_1.php" rel="nofollow">The Patriot Project</a>, September 15, 2006.</li>

</ul>

Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP (BM&H) "specializes in campaign, election and administrative law and litigation at all levels of government." [1]

*

Representing Front Groups

Dave Johnson reported in his September 15, 2006 The Huffington Post article on new MB&H client Economic Freedom Fund that other Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk's clients include:

California Tribal Business Alliance—"an 'Indian Gaming' organization" whose "mission statement is 'to safeguard and enhance the success of the business enterprises of our tribal government members' ....... and 'will foster business development and coalition building with like minded government and business leaders in California.'" (Also see this.)

"Californians for Paycheck Protection—yet another front group—this one sponsoring a California anti-union ballot initiative. (Their major funders in 2005 (go see how much) included the Chamber of Commerce and the California Republican Party.)" (Also see this.)

"notorious anti-environmental Congressman Richard Pombo." (See here.)

"big tobacco", with BM&H as "Philip Morris Outside Counsel" (See this.)

"A different partner at this firm, Thomas Hiltachk, filed the 'Fair Pay Workplace Flexibility Act of 2006'—a stealth attempt to get rid of California's overtime rules."

Other Clients

Alatorre City Council Fund [20]

Beth Rogers (R-CA) [21]

Bill Jones for U.S. Senate [22]

Maureen Reagan for Congress in 1993-1994. [23]

No New Taxes, A Project of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association [24]

Rescue California from Budget Deficits, a Committee Controlled by John Campbell [25]

Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, sponsor of the "Yes on Q & R" campaign [26]

Taxpayers for Roger Niello for Assembly [27]

<a href="http://www.dailykos.com/story/2010/3/27/124552/439">http://www.dailykos.com/story/2010/3/27/124552/439</a>

----

uses woodward for astroturfing

==

The Economic Freedom Fund (EFF), based in Sacramento, California, is a "new deep-pocketed" <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Conservative" title="Conservative">conservative</a> <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=527_committee" title="527 committee" class="mw-redirect" style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 102);">527 committee</a>, according to TPM Muckraker's Justin Rood. <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" rel="nofollow">[1]</a>

<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=R._Keith_Olberg" title="R. Keith Olberg">R. Keith Olberg</a>, a former California Assemblyman, is EFF's president, according to the <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">disclosure report</a> filed October 1, 2006, by EFF with the <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Federal_Election_Commission" title="Federal Election Commission">Federal Election Commission</a>. In October 2002, LA Weekly <a href="http://www.laweekly.com/general/features/endorsements/3472/" class="external text" title="http://www.laweekly.com/general/features/endorsements/3472/" rel="nofollow">described</a> Olberg, who was then running for California Secretary of State, as a "veteran <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Republican_Party" title="Republican Party" class="mw-redirect">Republican</a> <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonk" class="external text" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wonk" rel="nofollow">wonk</a> and legislator." Olberg's wife, Delette Olberg, is "a $99,000-a-year official on the [California] Assembly <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=GOP" title="GOP" class="mw-redirect">GOP</a> caucus staff." <a href="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=840" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=840" rel="nofollow">[2]</a>

The group works with <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Meridian_Pacific,_Inc." title="Meridian Pacific, Inc.">Meridian Pacific, Inc.</a>, "a two-year-old California consulting firm", Rood <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" rel="nofollow">wrote</a> September 14, 2006. As "further testament to its <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=GOP" title="GOP" class="mw-redirect">GOP</a> bonafides," Meridian is "headed by" <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=John_Peschong" title="John Peschong">John Peschong</a>, a "onetime senior <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Republican_National_Committee" title="Republican National Committee">Republican National Committee</a> official [who] joined <a href="http://www.newsreview.com/sacramento/Content?oid=oid%3A44039" class="external text" title="http://www.newsreview.com/sacramento/Content?oid=oid%3A44039" rel="nofollow">Meridian Pacific</a> in 2005, after seven years as the Western States Director for the RNC," Rood wrote.

On September 14, 2006, EFF's "sole backer" was Texas millionaire <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Robert_J._Perry" title="Robert J. Perry">Robert J. Perry</a>, "who founded the infamous <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Swift_Boat_Veterans_for_Truth" title="Swift Boat Veterans for Truth">Swift Boat Veterans for Truth</a> group during the 2004 elections," Rood wrote. <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001519.php" rel="nofollow">[3]</a>

Perry was <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">joined</a> September 21, 2006, by <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Carl_H._Lindner" title="Carl H. Lindner" class="mw-redirect">Carl H. Lindner</a>, "part owner of the Cincinnati Reds and <a href="http://www.forbes.com/lists/2006/54/biz_06rich400_Carl-Henry-Lindner-Jr-family_S22J.html" class="external text" title="http://www.forbes.com/lists/2006/54/biz_06rich400_Carl-Henry-Lindner-Jr-family_S22J.html" rel="nofollow">No. 133</a> on the Forbes 400 list of richest Americans, [who] has ponied up <a href="http://disclosure.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/dcdev/forms/C30000541/239543/f92" class="external text" title="http://disclosure.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/dcdev/forms/C30000541/239543/f92" rel="nofollow">$50,000</a> to EFF. More precisely, EFF has recorded a $50,000 donation from the <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?26940095173" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?26940095173" rel="nofollow">same address</a> as Lindner uses in other FEC reports," Josh Marshall <a href="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/009932.php" class="external text" title="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/009932.php" rel="nofollow">wrote</a> October 4, 2006.

EFF hired <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Stevens_Reed_Curcio_%26_Potholm" title="Stevens Reed Curcio & Potholm">Stevens Reed Curcio & Potholm</a>, an Arlington, Virginia, "media firm, to prepare ads against" Democratic incumbents Reps. <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Alan_Mollohan" title="Alan Mollohan">Alan Mollohan</a> (D-WV) and <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Jim_Marshall" title="Jim Marshall">Jim Marshall</a> (D-GA), Paul J. Nyden <a href="http://news.pajamasmedia.com/united_states/2006/09/15/10848956_Swift_Boat_figur.shtml" class="external text" title="http://news.pajamasmedia.com/united_states/2006/09/15/10848956_Swift_Boat_figur.shtml" rel="nofollow">reported</a> September 14, 2006, for McClatchy-Tribune Business News.

SRC&P "also prepared the Swift Boat ads attacking [John] <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=John_Kerry" title="John Kerry" class="mw-redirect">Kerry</a>'s military service in Vietnam, where he won a Silver Star, a Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts," Nyden wrote.

By the time the Economic Freedom Fund was only a month old, it had already been very active, dropping half a million bucks on negative TV ads against" Mollohan and Marshall, Paul Kiel of TPM Muckraker <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" rel="nofollow">wrote</a> September 14, 2006.

<h2>Contents</h2>

[<a href="javascript:toggleToc()" class="internal" id="togglelink">hide</a>]</div>

<ul>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#The_Organization">1 The Organization</a>

<ul>

<li class="toclevel-2"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#FEC_Filings">1.1 FEC Filings</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-2"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#EFF_Contact:Bell.2C_McAndrews.26_Hiltachk">1.2 EFF Contact: Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk</a></li>

</ul>

</li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Controversy">2 Controversy</a>

<ul>

<li class="toclevel-2"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Media_Campaign:_Direct_Mail_and_TV_Ads">2.1 Media Campaign: Direct Mail and TV Ads</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-2"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Media_Buys">2.2 Media Buys</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-2"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Push_Polling">2.3 Push Polling</a></li>

</ul>

</li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#EFF_Contributions">3 EFF Contributions</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Domain_Name">4 Domain Name</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Contact_Information">5 Contact Information</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#Related_SourceWatch_Resources">6 Related SourceWatch Resources</a></li>

<li class="toclevel-1"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund#External_links">7 External links</a></li>

</ul>

</td></tr></tbody></table>

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">The Organization</h2>

<h3 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">FEC Filings</h3>

EFF is registered with the Federal Election Commission with FEC ID# C30000541. EFF's FEC files can be accessed <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">here</a>.

<h3 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">EFF Contact: Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk</h3>

Actual contact information for the Committee is limited. According to EFF's <a href="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/docs/eff-fec/?resultpage=1&" class="external text" title="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/docs/eff-fec/?resultpage=1&" rel="nofollow">Form 9</a> filed with the <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Federal_Election_Commission" title="Federal Election Commission">Federal Election Commission</a>, the organization's physical address is 455 Capitol Mall, Suite 801, Sacramento, California. The "Records Custodian" is Charles H. Bell, Jr., who "also happens to be the General Counsel for the California Republican Party," Paul Kiel <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001518.php" rel="nofollow">wrote</a>.

Bell, a partner in <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bell,McAndrews%26_Hiltachk,_LLP" title="Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP">Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP</a> (BM&H), which "specializes in campaign, election and administrative law and litigation at all levels of government," is also "Vice Chairman of The <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Federalist_Society" title="Federalist Society" class="mw-redirect">Federalist Society</a>'s free speech and election law practice group" <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.bmhlaw.com/" rel="nofollow">[4]</a> and "the <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Republican_National_Lawyers_Association" title="Republican National Lawyers Association">Republican National Lawyers Association</a>'s vice president for the election education advisory council." <a href="http://www.wmaz.com/redesign/web/news/top_story.aspx?storyid=29528" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.wmaz.com/redesign/web/news/top_story.aspx?storyid=29528" rel="nofollow">[5]</a>

Information about the "Committee" is limited. According to the EFF website: <a href="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/who.html" class="external autonumber" title="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/who.html" rel="nofollow">[6]</a>

<dd>"Today Americans find themselves at a critical junction – we can either take steps forward and continue on a path of effective economic development or turn back the clock to higher taxes and burdensome government regulation. To help us get through this crucial period in time, we have taken a proactive step of setting up a committee called the Economic Freedom Fund.</dd>

</dl>

<dd>"The specific purposes of this corporation are to educate the public concerning issues related to the preservation of economic freedom, the promotion of economic growth and prosperity for the people of the United States of America, which purposes are consistent with Section 527 of the Internal Revenue Code."</dd>

</dl>

Absolutely no information is provided on EFF's website about Committee members. The only information available is to be found in the <a href="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/docs/eff-fec/?resultpage=1&" class="external text" title="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/docs/eff-fec/?resultpage=1&" rel="nofollow">FEC filing</a>.

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Controversy</h2>

<h3 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Media Campaign: Direct Mail and TV Ads</h3>

The EFF website provides links for its latest Direct Mail and Television <a href="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/viewads.html" class="external text" title="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/viewads.html" rel="nofollow">ads</a> for West Virginia, Georgia and Iowa. There is no other information provided on the website as to who produced the ads.

From YouTube:

<li>Attributed to "Economic Freedom Fund: Jim Marshall" "from <a href="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/copyright.html" class="external text" title="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/copyright.html" rel="nofollow">tpmmedia</a>":</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3S8rHANZtE4" class="external text" title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3S8rHANZtE4" rel="nofollow">"Cynthia's BlackMuslim anti-Semites"</a> added August 9, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0Qo5s7ZBz4&mode=related&search=" class="external text" title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R0Qo5s7ZBz4&mode=related&search=" rel="nofollow">"McKinney's supporters hurl epithets at the media"</a> added August 10, 2006.</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlHPgV-YxOY" class="external text" title="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nlHPgV-YxOY" rel="nofollow">Against John Barrow</a>, posted September 20, 2006.</li>

</ul>

<h3 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Media Buys</h3>

According to <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Federal_Election_Commission" title="Federal Election Commission">Federal Election Commission</a> disclosure reports for <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">Committee ID: C30000541</a>, the Economic Freedom Fund received two initial contributions totaling $5 million from Bob J. Perry of Texas. With the addition of the $50,000 contributed by Carl H. Lindner, all payments for media buys were made by EFF from these funds exclusively to Meridian Pacific, Inc. either for television production or television buys. Note: To access records, click on 'PDF' link for each date or date cluster.

Media buys to date, as reported on a FEC Form 9, target five Democrat House candidates: <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Alan_Mollohan" title="Alan Mollohan">Alan Mollohan</a>, West Virginia 1st District; <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Jim_Marshall" title="Jim Marshall">Jim Marshall</a>, Georgia 8th District; <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Leonard_Boswell" title="Leonard Boswell">Leonard Boswell</a>, Iowa 3rd District; <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=John_Barrow" title="John Barrow">John Barrow</a>, Georgia 12th District; and <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Darlene_Hooley" title="Darlene Hooley">Darlene Hooley</a>, Oregon 5th District.

The last reported media buy was October 16, 2006, according to <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">disclosure reports</a>.

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">August 23, 2006, and August 29, 2006</a>, four media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$105,000.00 and $9,946.00 for "Television Buy - To Be Continued" re Alan Mollohan</li>

<li>$105,000.00 for "Television Buy - Chapter 2" re Alan Mollohan</li>

<li>$75,000.00 for "Television Buy - Take a Guess" re Jim Marshall</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$105,000.00 for "Television Buy - Road Trip" re Alan Mollohan</li>

<li>$75,000.00 for "Television Buy - Double Life" re Jim Marshall</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">September 5, 2006</a>, for two media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$12,096.02 for "Television Production - Chapter 2" re Alan Mollohan</li>

<li>$12,960.17 for "Television Production - Take a Guess" re Jim Marshall</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">September 8, 2006</a>, for two media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$711.15 for "Television Production - Even More" re Alan Mollohan</li>

<li>$638.93 for "Television Production - Who Is This" re Jim Marshall</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$151,200.00 for "Television Buy - Taxman" re Leonard Boswell</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$120,058.00 for "Television Buy - Forehead" re John Barrow</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">September 18, 2006</a>, seven media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$151,220.00, $3,666.73 and $27,500.00 for "Television Buy - Side" re Leonard Boswell</li>

<li>$9,309.50 for "Television Production - Another Georgian" re Jim Marshall</li>

<li>$1,951.35 for "Television Production - Double Life" re Jim Marshall</li>

<li>$9,200.77 for "Television Production - Just the Facts" re Alan Mollohan</li>

<li>$9,877.03 for "Television Production - Cheek" re John Barrow</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">September 18, 2006</a>, four media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$75,000.00 for "Television Buy - Another Georgian" re Jim Marshall</li>

<li>$120,900.00 for "Television Buy - Cheek" re John Barrow</li>

<li>$2806.32 for "Television Production - Take A Guess" re Jim Marshall</li>

<li>$15,977.09 for "Television Production - Taxman" re Leonard Boswell</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?C30000541" rel="nofollow">September 18, 2006</a>, four media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$105,000.00 for "Television Buy - Just the Facts" re Alan Molohan</li>

<li>$11,537.87 for "Television Production - Forehead" re John Barrow</li>

<li>$13,106.71 for "Television Production - Road Trip" re Alan Molohan</li>

<li>$16,513.77 for "Television Production - Double Life" re Jim Marshall</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$75,000.00 and $49,385.00 for "Television Buy - Nothing Wrong" re Jim Marshall</li>

<li>$6,956.34 for "Television Production - Side" re Leonard Boswell</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$165,000.00 "Television Buy - Social Security" re Darlene Hooley</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$151,200.00 "Television Buy - Liberal Leonard" re Leonard Boswell</li>

<li>$120,988.00 "Television Buy - Chin" re John Barrow</li>

<li>$13,612.06 "Television Production - Nothing Wrong" re Jim Marshall</li>

<li>$2,288.00 "Television Buy - Check" re John Barrow</li>

<li>$10,880.22 "Television Buy - Chin" re John Barrow</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?F26960439318" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?F26960439318" rel="nofollow">October 4, 2006</a>, one media buy:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$165,000.00 "Television Buy - National Defense" re Darlene Hooley</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>7,562.97 "Television Production - Liberal Leonard" re Leonard Boswell</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$5,013.70 "Television Production - To Be Continued" re Alan Molohan</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?F26960446294" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?F26960446294" rel="nofollow">October 10, 2006</a>, two media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$13,500.00 "Radio Ad - Dirty Little Secret" re Leonard Boswell</li>

<li>15,605.00 "Radio Ad - Fooling Georgia" re Jim Marshall</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<li>For <a href="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?F26960529567" class="external text" title="http://images.nictusa.com/cgi-bin/fecimg/?F26960529567" rel="nofollow">October 16, 2006</a>, three media buys:</li>

</ul>

<dd>

<ul>

<li>$9,331.00 "Television Production - National Defense" re Darlene Hooley</li>

<li>$32,548.93 "Television Buy - Social Security" re Darlene Hooley</li>

<li>$9, 331.00 "Television Production - Social Security" re Darlene Hooley</li>

</ul>

</dd>

</dl>

<h3 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);"><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Push_poll" title="Push poll">Push Polling</a></h3>

Calls made on behalf of the Economic Freedom Fund, with a Braddock, VA, address, were made on August 30 and September 1, 2006. See Comments posted for WhoCalled.US "Lookup" for <a href="http://whocalled.us/lookup/5715221575" class="external text" title="http://whocalled.us/lookup/5715221575" rel="nofollow">571 522-1575</a> and <a href="http://whocalled.us/comment/5715226400" class="external text" title="http://whocalled.us/comment/5715226400" rel="nofollow">571 226-6400</a>.

For background, see Mark Blumenthal's February 23, 2006, <a href="http://www.tpmcafe.com/node/27095" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmcafe.com/node/27095" rel="nofollow">"The Roboscam Calls"</a> in the TPM Cafe Blog.

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">EFF Contributions</h2>

Those desirous of contributing to EFF are provided little real information. The EFF website asks that contributions <a href="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/EFF_ContributionForm.pdf" class="external text" title="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/EFF_ContributionForm.pdf" rel="nofollow">be mailed</a> "to our Treasurer" at the Bell, McAndrews & Hiltachk, LLP address. A form can be printed out and mailed with a contribution.

However, no information is provided as to the form in which a contribution should be made—check, cash, money order or credit card—and there is no online payment method provided.

<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Domain Name</h2>

The domain name ECONOMICFREEDOMFUND.COM was <a href="http://www.networksolutions.com/whois/results.jsp?whoistoken=0" class="external text" title="http://www.networksolutions.com/whois/results.jsp?whoistoken=0" rel="nofollow">created</a> August 22, 2006, with private registration through GoDaddy.com to Domains by Proxy, Inc.

Physical Address:

455 Capitol Mall

Suite 801

Sacramento, California 95814

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 191005

Sacramento, CA 95819

Phone: 916 296-0844

Email: Info AT economicfreedomfund.com

Website: <a href="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/" class="external free" title="http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/" rel="nofollow">http://www.economicfreedomfund.com/</a>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Political_microtargeting" title="Political microtargeting">political microtargeting</a></li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Swiftboating" title="Swiftboating">swiftboating</a></li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=U.S._congressional_elections_in_2006" title="U.S. congressional elections in 2006" class="mw-redirect">U.S. congressional elections in 2006</a></li>

</ul>

<li><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_Freedom_Fund" class="external text" title="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_Freedom_Fund" rel="nofollow">Economic Freedom Fund</a> in the Wikipedia.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/docs/eff-fec/?resultpage=1&" class="external text" title="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/docs/eff-fec/?resultpage=1&" rel="nofollow">Electronic Freedom Fund</a> Federal Election Commission filing, posted by Talking Points Memo.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/527s/527new.asp?cycle=2006" class="external text" title="http://www.opensecrets.org/527s/527new.asp?cycle=2006" rel="nofollow">New This Week: 527s</a>, Open Secrets, Week of August 22, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul J. Nyden, <a href="http://elections.uschamber.com/electionportal?action=viewNewsArticle&docId=1924609&databaseId=61" class="external text" title="http://elections.uschamber.com/electionportal?action=viewNewsArticle&docId=1924609&databaseId=61" rel="nofollow">"Out-of-state group's ad targets Mollohan,"</a> Charleston Gazette (W.Va.) (posted on <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=U.S._Chamber_of_Commerce" title="U.S. Chamber of Commerce">U.S. Chamber of Commerce</a> website), August 31, 2006.</li>

<li>Lawrence Messina, <a href="http://www.dailymail.com/news/News/2006083146/" class="external text" title="http://www.dailymail.com/news/News/2006083146/" rel="nofollow">"Mollohan attacks Wakim on gambling,"</a> Associated Press (Charleston Daily Mail (W.Va.)), August 31, 2006.</li>

<li>Robert B. Bluey, <a href="http://www.humanevents.com/rightangle/index.php?p=15969" class="external text" title="http://www.humanevents.com/rightangle/index.php?p=15969" rel="nofollow">"WV-01: Alan Mollohan Targeted in New Ad,"</a> The Ballot Box/Human Events Online, September 1, 2006.</li>

<li>O. Kay Henderson, <a href="http://learfield.typepad.com/radioiowa/2006/09/what_the_bush_t.html" class="external text" title="http://learfield.typepad.com/radioiowa/2006/09/what_the_bush_t.html" rel="nofollow">"What the Bush team wants to know,"</a> Radio Iowa, September 6, 2006.</li>

<li>KL Snow, <a href="http://klsnow.blogspot.com/2006/09/more-unethical-practices-one-maybe-two.html" class="external text" title="http://klsnow.blogspot.com/2006/09/more-unethical-practices-one-maybe-two.html" rel="nofollow">"More unethical practices: One (maybe two) push polls,"</a> Diary of a political madman Blogspot, September 6, 2006.</li>

<li>Rich Hardwick, <a href="http://www.wmaz.com/redesign/web/news/top_story.aspx?storyid=29528" class="external text" title="http://www.wmaz.com/redesign/web/news/top_story.aspx?storyid=29528" rel="nofollow">"Truth Test: Hidden Republicans Attack Marshall,"</a> WMAZ.com (Macon, GA), September 7, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.tpmcafe.com/blog/electioncentral/2006/sep/08/ga_08_gop_527_scares_voters_w_mckinney" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmcafe.com/blog/electioncentral/2006/sep/08/ga_08_gop_527_scares_voters_w_mckinney" rel="nofollow">"GA-08: GOP 527 Ties Dems to Long-Gone McKinney,"</a> TPM Cafe, September 8, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.baron2006.com/news.php?id=116&PHPSESSID=660c7cd336e1fd1995d3c463838fe6ef" class="external text" title="http://www.baron2006.com/news.php?id=116&PHPSESSID=660c7cd336e1fd1995d3c463838fe6ef" rel="nofollow">"Hill calls on Sodrel to denounce illegal automated calls,"</a> Baron2006.com, September 13, 2006.</li>

<li>Kerry Corum, <a href="http://www.14wfie.com/Global/story.asp?S=5408559&nav=3w6o" class="external text" title="http://www.14wfie.com/Global/story.asp?S=5408559&nav=3w6o" rel="nofollow">"Political Telemarketing: GOP Lobbyists Taped,"</a> 14WFIE.com (IN), September 14, 2006.</li>

<li>Ben Evans, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/14/AR2006091400940.html" class="external text" title="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/14/AR2006091400940.html" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat Ads Backer Funds New Group,"</a> Washington Post, September 14, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Taylor_Marsh" title="Taylor Marsh">Taylor Marsh</a>, <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/robert_j_perry_1.php" class="external text" title="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/robert_j_perry_1.php" rel="nofollow">"Robert J. Perry is Back,"</a> <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=The_Patriot_Project" title="The Patriot Project" class="mw-redirect">The Patriot Project</a>, September 14, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.wtvm.com/Global/story.asp?S=5408973&nav=8fap" class="external text" title="http://www.wtvm.com/Global/story.asp?S=5408973&nav=8fap" rel="nofollow">"Former Swift Boat attack-ad backer takes on Marshall,"</a> WTVM.com (GA), September 14, 2006.</li>

<li>Chris Woods (poster), <a href="http://www.politicalforecast.net/2006/09/14/ia-gov-nussle-gets-help-from-527-bankrolled-by-swift-boat-funder/" class="external text" title="http://www.politicalforecast.net/2006/09/14/ia-gov-nussle-gets-help-from-527-bankrolled-by-swift-boat-funder/" rel="nofollow">"IA-Gov: Nussel gets help from 527 bankrolled by Swift Boat funder,"</a> Political Forecast, September 14, 2006.</li>

<li>Greg Pierce, <a href="http://washingtontimes.com/national/20060915-121119-1748r.htm" class="external text" title="http://washingtontimes.com/national/20060915-121119-1748r.htm" rel="nofollow">Inside Politics: Cash in hand,"</a> Washington Times, September 15, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul J. Nyden, <a href="http://news.pajamasmedia.com/united_states/2006/09/15/10848956_Swift_Boat_figur.shtml" class="external text" title="http://news.pajamasmedia.com/united_states/2006/09/15/10848956_Swift_Boat_figur.shtml" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat figure attacks Mollohan: Texan housing executive running ads against Democrat,"</a> McClatchy-Tribune Business News delivered by Newstex (<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Pajamas_Media" title="Pajamas Media">Pajamas Media</a>) and <a href="http://sundaygazettemail.com/section/News/2006091419" class="external text" title="http://sundaygazettemail.com/section/News/2006091419" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat figure attacks Mollohan. Texan housing executive running ads against Democrat,"</a> Sunday Gazette-Mail, September 15, 2006.</li>

<li>O. Kay Henderson, <a href="http://www.radioiowa.com/gestalt/go.cfm?objectid=B260E627-0751-43BF-8E8967BC8D1F4E59&dbtranslator=local.cfm" class="external text" title="http://www.radioiowa.com/gestalt/go.cfm?objectid=B260E627-0751-43BF-8E8967BC8D1F4E59&dbtranslator=local.cfm" rel="nofollow">"Texan's money bankrolling group campaigning for Nussle, Lamberti,"</a> Radio Iowa, September 15, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.polkcountydemocrats.org/ht/display/ReleaseDetails/i/870256" class="external text" title="http://www.polkcountydemocrats.org/ht/display/ReleaseDetails/i/870256" rel="nofollow">"Economic Freedom Fund Backed By Swift Boat Financer,"</a> PolkCountryDemocrats.org (Iowa), September 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Frank D. Russo, <a href="http://www.californiaprogressreport.com/2006/09/swift_boats_arr.html" class="external text" title="http://www.californiaprogressreport.com/2006/09/swift_boats_arr.html" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boats Arrive in Sacramento,"</a> California Progress Report, September 15, 2006.</li>

<li>Chris Woods (poster), <a href="http://www.politicalforecast.net/2006/09/15/ia-03-eff-ads-for-lamberti-pulled-by-kcci-and-who/" class="external text" title="http://www.politicalforecast.net/2006/09/15/ia-03-eff-ads-for-lamberti-pulled-by-kcci-and-who/" rel="nofollow">"IA-03: EFF ads for Lamberti pulled by KCCI and WHO"</a> and <a href="http://www.politicalforecast.net/2006/09/15/ia-gov-03-more-on-the-eff/" class="external text" title="http://www.politicalforecast.net/2006/09/15/ia-gov-03-more-on-the-eff/" rel="nofollow">"IA-03: More on the EFF,"</a> Political Forecast, September 15, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.independentreport.org/MT/archives/2006/09/index.html#001411" class="external text" title="http://www.independentreport.org/MT/archives/2006/09/index.html#001411" rel="nofollow">"Swiftboat founder harrassing voters,"</a> Independent Report, September 15, 2006.</li>

<li>Bennett Roth, <a href="http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/nation/4192328.html" class="external text" title="http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/nation/4192328.html" rel="nofollow">"Local builder Perry bankrolling group,"</a> Houston Chronicle, September 16, 2006. Scroll down to article.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,214151,00.html" class="external text" title="http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,214151,00.html" rel="nofollow">"Backer of Kerry Swift Boat Attack Ads Funding Group Targeting Democrats,"</a> Associated Press (Fox News), September 16, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060917/News01/609170452/-1/NEWS01" class="external text" title="http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060917/News01/609170452/-1/NEWS01" rel="nofollow">"Man reports call from lobbyist. Call made to Hoosier, who sues telemarketers that violate state law,"</a> Associated Press (South Bend Tribune), September 17, 2006.</li>

<li>Taylor Marsh, <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/eef_targets_jim.php" class="external text" title="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/eef_targets_jim.php" rel="nofollow">"EEF Targets Jim Marshall,"</a> The Patriot Project, September 17, 2006.</li>

<li>Josh Gerstein, <a href="http://www.nysun.com/article/39826" class="external text" title="http://www.nysun.com/article/39826" rel="nofollow">"527 Groups Use Legal Loopholes To Influence Elections,"</a> The New York Sun, September 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Mary Beth Schneider, <a href="http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060918/LOCAL19/609180459" class="external text" title="http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060918/LOCAL19/609180459" rel="nofollow">"State sues over campaign calls,"</a> Indianapolis Star (IN), September 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Lesley Stedman Weidenbener, <a href="http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060918/NEWS02/60918017" class="external text" title="http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060918/NEWS02/60918017" rel="nofollow">"Indiana sues over automated political calls,"</a> The Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY), September 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001547.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001547.php" rel="nofollow">"Indiana Sues Swift Boater's New Attack Group"</a> and <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001549.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001549.php" rel="nofollow">"GOP Attack Group Trains Big Guns on Iowa Race,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Dave Johnson, <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/frontgroup_econ.php" class="external text" title="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/frontgroup_econ.php" rel="nofollow">"Front-Group Economic Freedom Fund and Meridian Pacific,"</a> The Patriot Project, September 18, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.suntimes.com/output/elect/cst-nws-swift19.html" class="external text" title="http://www.suntimes.com/output/elect/cst-nws-swift19.html" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat ad backer turns to Indiana race,"</a> Associated Press (Chicago Sun-Times), September 19, 2006.</li>

<li>David Mann, <a href="http://www.news-tribune.net/news/local_story_262163301.html" class="external text" title="http://www.news-tribune.net/news/local_story_262163301.html" rel="nofollow">"Political calls prompt lawsuit. Organization funded by former swift boat financier targeted,"</a> NewsAndTribune.com (Albany, NY), September 19, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001562.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001562.php" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat Money Man Reunites with Swift Boat Media Firm,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 19, 2006.</li>

<li>Tim Higgins, <a href="http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060920/NEWS09/609200351" class="external text" title="http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060920/NEWS09/609200351" rel="nofollow">"National figures fuel campaign for Congress seat. Widely known groups pay for advertisements in Iowa's 3rd District, and top political officials plan visits,"</a> Des Moines Register, September 20, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001565.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001565.php" rel="nofollow">"GOP Attack Group Hits 2nd Georgia Dem,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 20, 2006.</li>

<li>William Rivers Pitt, <a href="http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/092006J.shtml" class="external text" title="http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/092006J.shtml" rel="nofollow">"Swiftboating the Swiftboaters,"</a> truthout, September 20, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001569.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001569.php" rel="nofollow">"Polling Group Condemns Swiftboater's Call Tactics,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 21, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul J. Nyden, <a href="http://wvgazette.com/section/News/2006092119" class="external text" title="http://wvgazette.com/section/News/2006092119" rel="nofollow">"GOP leaders blasts 527s. Groups have no contribution limit, congressman says,"</a> Sunday Gazette-Mail (WVA), September 22, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001586.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001586.php" rel="nofollow">"Shadowy Attack Group Uses Shadowy Calling Firm,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 22, 2006.</li>

<li>Bob Dart, <a href="http://www.ajc.com/print/content/printedition/2006/09/23/metpolads0923a.html" class="external text" title="http://www.ajc.com/print/content/printedition/2006/09/23/metpolads0923a.html" rel="nofollow">"Swift Boat ad bankroller targets 2 Ga. Democrats,"</a> Atlanta Journal-Constitution, September 23, 2006.</li>

<li>Deanna Martin, <a href="http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/15592124.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/15592124.htm" rel="nofollow">"Telemarketer sues Indiana over ban. Company claims its free speech is being violated,"</a> Associated Press (FortWayne.com), September 23, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001593.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001593.php" rel="nofollow">"GOP-Tied Firm Sues Indiana For Right to Smear,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 23, 2006.</li>

<li>Josh Marshall, <a href="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/009932.php" class="external text" title="http://www.talkingpointsmemo.com/archives/009932.php" rel="nofollow">Talking Points Memo</a>, September 23, 2006.</li>

<li>Travis Fain, <a href="http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/15595155.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/15595155.htm" rel="nofollow">"'L-word' looms large in Marshall-Collins race,"</a> Macon Telegraph/Macon.com (GA), September 24, 2006.</li>

<li>Deanna Martin, <a href="http://www.idsnews.com/news/story.php?id=37717&adid=city" class="external text" title="http://www.idsnews.com/news/story.php?id=37717&adid=city" rel="nofollow">"Company sues Indiana over calling ban. Business says state's ban violates right of free speech,"</a> Indiana Daily Student News, September 25, 2006.</li>

<li>Lesley Stedman Weidenbener, <a href="http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060926/NEWS0203/609260353" class="external text" title="http://www.courier-journal.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060926/NEWS0203/609260353" rel="nofollow">"State files suit over recorded calls. Group critical of GOP's Sodrel,"</a> The Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY), September 26, 2006.</li>

<li>YaVonda Smalls, <a href="http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060926/Biz/609260463/CAT=Biz" class="external text" title="http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060926/Biz/609260463/CAT=Biz" rel="nofollow">"Autodialer law faces challenges in Indiana. Attorney general remains serious about enforcing statute,"</a> SouthBendTribune.com, September 26, 2006.</li>

<li>Steve Hinnefeld, <a href="http://www.reporter-times.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=35604&format=html" class="external text" title="http://www.reporter-times.com/?module=displaystory&story_id=35604&format=html" rel="nofollow">"State suing American Family Voices over automated calls,"</a> Reporter-Times.com (IN), September 26, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/15620318.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.fortwayne.com/mld/fortwayne/news/local/15620318.htm" rel="nofollow">"Judge blocks political calls. California-based group’s automated calls attack Democratic candidate,"</a> Associated Press (FortWayne.com (IN)), September 27, 2006.</li>

<li>Paul Kiel, <a href="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001614.php" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmmuckraker.com/archives/001614.php" rel="nofollow">"GOP Attack Calls May Violate Fed Rules,"</a> TPM Muckraker, September 27, 2006.</li>

<li>mrs panstreppon, <a href="http://www.tpmcafe.com/blog/mrs_panstreppon/2006/sep/27/more_on_the_economic_freedom_fund_ccadvertising" class="external text" title="http://www.tpmcafe.com/blog/mrs_panstreppon/2006/sep/27/more_on_the_economic_freedom_fund_ccadvertising" rel="nofollow">"More on the Economic Freedom Fund & ccAdvertising,"</a> TPM Cafe, September 27, 2006.</li>

<li>Jim Kuhnhenn, <a href="http://www.capitolhillblue.com/content/2006/09/outside_groups.html" class="external text" title="http://www.capitolhillblue.com/content/2006/09/outside_groups.html" rel="nofollow">"Outside groups, mostly GOP biased, trying to buy elections,"</a> Associated Press (Capitol Hill Blue)/(<a href="http://www.nysun.com/article/40697" class="external text" title="http://www.nysun.com/article/40697" rel="nofollow">New York Sun</a>), September 30, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2006/10/1/163121.shtml?s=po" class="external text" title="http://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2006/10/1/163121.shtml?s=po" rel="nofollow">"Outside Groups Spending Millions On Ads,"</a> <a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=NewsMax" title="NewsMax" class="mw-redirect">NewsMax</a>, October 1, 2006.</li>

<li>Dave Johnson, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-johnson/frontgroup-alert-softer_b_30888.html" class="external text" title="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dave-johnson/frontgroup-alert-softer_b_30888.html" rel="nofollow">"Front-Group Alert: Softer Voices,"</a> The Huffington Post, October 3, 2006.</li>

<li>Greg Giroux, <a href="http://www.cqpolitics.com/2006/10/spending_statistics_reflect_ho.html" class="external text" title="http://www.cqpolitics.com/2006/10/spending_statistics_reflect_ho.html" rel="nofollow">"Spending Statistics Reflect House GOP’s Defensive Posture,"</a> CQ Politics, October 3, 2006.</li>

<li>Steve Mayes, <a href="http://www.oregonlive.com/metrosouth/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/metro_south_news/1159926944323190.xml&coll=7" class="external text" title="http://www.oregonlive.com/metrosouth/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/metro_south_news/1159926944323190.xml&coll=7" rel="nofollow">"Out-of-state group zeroes in on Hooley. Election - The organization attempts to tarnish the Democrat's voting record,"</a> OregonLive.com, October 4, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.blueoregon.com/2006/10/swiftboat_gang.html" class="external text" title="http://www.blueoregon.com/2006/10/swiftboat_gang.html" rel="nofollow">"Swiftboat Gang comes after Darlene Hooley,"</a> BlueOregon.com, October 4, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73591" class="external text" title="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73591" rel="nofollow">"Boswell Campaign: Congressman Boswell to Address Out-of-State Interest Groups in Campaign,"</a> IowaPolitics.com, October 4, 2006.</li>

<li>Chris Dorsey, <a href="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73534" class="external text" title="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73534" rel="nofollow">"IowaPolitics.com: 3rd CD Candidates Discuss TV Ads in Debate,"</a> IowaPolitics.com, October 4, 2006.</li>

<li>Ben Evans, <a href="http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/news/politics/15680686.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.macon.com/mld/macon/news/politics/15680686.htm" rel="nofollow">"Voters getting dizzy from the spinning. Public getting turned off by ad wars in 8th District race,"</a> Associated Press (Macon Telegraph), October 5, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73722" class="external text" title="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73722" rel="nofollow">"Boswell Campaign: Congressman Boswell Tells Lamberti 'Keep Your Word' and Remove 527 Ads,"</a> IowaPolitics.com, October 5, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73721" class="external text" title="http://www.iowapolitics.com/index.iml?Article=73721" rel="nofollow">"Lamberti Campaign: Lamberti to Boswell: It’s Time to Stop Hiding Behind Negative Ads,"</a> IowaPolitics.com, October 5, 2006.</li>

<li><a href="http://www.economist.com/world/na/displaystory.cfm?story_id=8001477" class="external text" title="http://www.economist.com/world/na/displaystory.cfm?story_id=8001477" rel="nofollow">"Negative campaigning. The same to you, with knobs on. The mid-term mud starts to fly,"</a> The Economist (from the print edition), October 5, 2006.</li>

<li>James Boyce, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-boyce/let-the-voter-beware_b_31357.html" class="external text" title="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-boyce/let-the-voter-beware_b_31357.html" rel="nofollow">"Let The Voter Beware,"</a> The Huffington Post, October 10, 2006.</li>

<li>Greg Pierce, <a href="http://washingtontimes.com/national/20061010-121325-2340r.htm" class="external text" title="http://washingtontimes.com/national/20061010-121325-2340r.htm" rel="nofollow">"Inside Politics: Still smarting,"</a> Washington Times, October 10, 2006.</li>

<li>Jesse Stanchak, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/cq/2006/10/11/cq_1611.html" class="external text" title="http://www.nytimes.com/cq/2006/10/11/cq_1611.html" rel="nofollow">"Erickson Overcomes Late Start in Ore. 5, Has Shot Against Hooley,"</a> New York Times, October 11, 2006.</li>

<li>John Broder, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/11/us/politics/11donate.html?r=1&oref=slogin" class="external text" title="http://www.nytimes.com/2006/10/11/us/politics/11donate.html?r=1&oref=slogin" rel="nofollow">"As Election Nears, Groups Plan Negative Ads,"</a> New York Times, October 11, 2006.</li>

<li>Mike Glover, <a href="http://www.forbes.com/business/services/feeds/ap/2006/10/12/ap3085265.html" class="external text" title="http://www.forbes.com/business/services/feeds/ap/2006/10/12/ap3085265.html" rel="nofollow">"Political Storm Settles Over Iowa,"</a> Associated Press (Forbes), October 12, 2006.</li>

<li>Jim Kuhnhenn, <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/12/AR2006101201278.html" class="external text" title="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/10/12/AR2006101201278.html" rel="nofollow">"FEC Asked to Tighten Regulations,"</a> Associated Press (Washington Post), October 12, 2006.</li>

<li>Tom Breen, <a href="http://www.timeswv.com/intodayspaper/local_story_288224203.html?keyword=secondarystory" class="external text" title="http://www.timeswv.com/intodayspaper/local_story_288224203.html?keyword=secondarystory" rel="nofollow">"From Wheeling to West Point — to Washington? Chris Wakim aims to oust Alan Mollohan from Congressional seat,"</a> Associated Press (timeswv.com), October 15, 2006.</li>

<li>Brad Cain, <a href="http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/regional/index.ssf?/base/news-16/1160943558277680.xml&storylist=orlocal" class="external text" title="http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/regional/index.ssf?/base/news-16/1160943558277680.xml&storylist=orlocal" rel="nofollow">"Oregon House race spurs TV ad blitz,"</a> Associated Press (OregonLive.com), October 15, 2006.</li>

<li>Ben Evans, <a href="http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/15773761.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/news/local/15773761.htm" rel="nofollow">"Marshall, Barrow take financial edge into final weeks of campaign,"</a> Associated Press (Ledger-Enquirer.com), October 16, 2006.</li>

<li>Kristen Mack, <a href="http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/4264077.html" class="external text" title="http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/4264077.html" rel="nofollow">"Builder's $8 million tops GOP donor list. Bob Perry is financing House races nationwide, but not in state,"</a> Houston Chronicle, October 17, 2006.</li>

<li>Chris Barge, <a href="http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/elections/article/0,2808,DRMN_24736_5072067,00.html" class="external text" title="http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/elections/article/0,2808,DRMN_24736_5072067,00.html" rel="nofollow">"'Swift Boat' ads backer paying for Colo. spot,"</a> Rocky Mountain News, October 17, 2006.</li>

<li>Matthew Daly, <a href="http://www.examiner.com/a-350377%7EHooley_strikes_back_against_Swift_Boat_group_that_targets_her.html" class="external text" title="http://www.examiner.com/a-350377_{Hooley_strikes_back_against_Swift_Boat_group_that_targets_her.html}" rel="nofollow">"Hooley strikes back against Swift Boat group that targets her,"</a> Associated Press (Examiner), October 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Jim Kuhnhenn, <a href="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/1132AP_Independent_Ads.html" class="external text" title="http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/1132AP_Independent_Ads.html" rel="nofollow">"Independent groups increase advertising,"</a> Associated Press (Seattle Post-Intelligencer), October 18, 2006.</li>

<li>Tim Higgins, <a href="http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061019/NEWS09/610190400/1056" class="external text" title="http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061019/NEWS09/610190400/1056" rel="nofollow">"Donor groups 'disgraceful,' McCain says,"</a> DesMoinesRegister.com, October 19, 2006.</li>

<li>James Boyce, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-boyce/youve-got-to-love-it-whe_b_32070.html" class="external text" title="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/james-boyce/youve-got-to-love-it-whe_b_32070.html" rel="nofollow">"You've Got To Love It When Jack Murtha Helps You Kick Some Ass,"</a> The Huffington Post, October 19, 2006.</li>

<li>Ben Evans, <a href="http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/15829397.htm" class="external text" title="http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/mld/ledgerenquirer/15829397.htm" rel="nofollow">"Outside money, mostly for GOP, floods Georgia congressional races,"</a> Associated Press, October 23, 2006.</li>

<li>Bill Byrd, <a href="http://www.timeswv.com/local/local_story_297002310.html" class="external text" title="http://www.timeswv.com/local/local_story_297002310.html" rel="nofollow">"Byrd urges SRO crowd to vote Nov. 7. 'They can’t sell that rancid vinegar for wine,' he says of smear campaigns,"</a> Times West Virginia, October 24, 2006.</li>

</ul>

Note: This article was started September 14, 2006.

<div class="printfooter" style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">Retrieved from "<a href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund">http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Economic_Freedom_Fund</a>"</div>

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<h2 style="color: rgb(102, 102, 102);">September 16, 2006</h2>

<h3 class="entry-header"><a href="http://www.seeingtheforest.com/archives/2006/09/new_frontgroup.htm">New Front-Group Alert: Economic Freedom Fund</a></h3>

-- by Dave Johnson

This piece originally appeared on <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/new_frontgroup_1.php">The Patriot Project</a>

A new front group has appeared on the scene.  Yesterday in her Patriot Project post <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/09/robert_j_perry_1.php">Robert J. Perry is Back</a>, Taylor Marsh wrote about Robert J. Perry plunking down $5 million (!) just to fund the Economic Freedom Fund (EFF).  Perry - who has close ties to Karl Rove and Tom DeLay - was a prime funder of the notorious <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/2006/07/dave_johnson_th.php">Swift Boat Vets for Freedom</a> - the smear front-group that made claims including that John Kerry shot himself to get his medals - and now this one person is providing $5 million in funding for a national front group that is attempting to have an influence on the control of the Congress in this election.

In government filing documents (<a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/uploads/EFF_FEC_Filing.pdf">here</a> and <a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/uploads/EFF_IRS_Filing.pdf">here</a>) EFF lists its contact as Charles Bell, of the Sacramento, California law firm Bell, Mcandrews & Hiltachk.  <a href="http://elections.uschamber.com/electionportal?action=viewNewsArticle&docId=1945153&databaseId=61">Charles Bell is</a> general counsel to the California Republican Party, is <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/partners.htm#cbell">Vice Chairman</a> of The Federalist Society's free speech and election law practice group, and is active in the Republican National Lawyers Association.

There is an interesting read at the firm's website, <a href="http://www.bmhlaw.com/mrlaw.htm">In the Right Place at the Right Time</a>,

<blockquote>"When Charles Bell Jr. got on the bus carrying the California Republican delegation to a party Monday night, he received the kind of introduction political lawyers dream about.

"This guy's Mr. Campaign Law," was how one delegate described Bell to a colleague. "He'll keep you out of jail."

</blockquote>

Bell, Mcandrews & Hiltachk's clients include the <a href="http://www.caltba.org/">California Tribal Business Alliance</a> - an "Indian Gaming" organization.  Their <a href="http://www.caltba.org/philosophy-1.html">mission statement</a> is "to safeguard and enhance the success of the business enterprises of our tribal government members" ....... and "will foster business development and coalition building with like minded government and business leaders in California."

Another Bell, Mcandrews & Hiltachk client was Californians for Paycheck Protection - yet another front group - this one sponsoring a California anti-union ballot initiative. (Their <a href="http://www.aroundthecapitol.com/electiontrack/lookup.php?committee=1277460">major funders in 2005</a> (go see how much) included the Chamber of Commerce and the California Republican Party.)

<a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/politicians/expendetail.asp?CID=N00007516&cycle=2006&name=Bell%2C+Mcandrews+%26+Hiltachk">Another client</a> is the notorious anti-environmental Congressman Richard Pombo.

And, of course, always, always showing up with this crowd, big tobacco: <a href="http://www.pmdocs.com/PRIVLOGS/Clog/Clog/B.html">BELL, MCANDREWS & HILTACHK Philip Morris Outside Counsel</a>".

A different partner at this firm, Thomas Hiltachk, <a href="http://www.capitolweekly.net/news/article.html?article_id=517">filed the</a> "Fair Pay Workplace Flexibility Act of 2006" - a stealth attempt to get rid of California's overtime rules.

Stories about this EFF front group running nasty Republican push-polls in districts around the country are popping up in the blogs.  A story about one EFF poll appears <a href="http://learfield.typepad.com/radioiowa/2006/09/what_the_bush_t.html">at the Iowa Radio Blog</a>,

<blockquote>The call started by asking if I plan to vote in November.  It's a recorded voice asking the questions, and it only accepts "yes" or "no" as responses. ... There were no questions about local races (neither Lamberti nor Nussle), but the questions were designed to cross-check Bush's popularity with the issues Republicans, particularly conservatives, have pushed.</blockquote>

Another <a href="http://klsnow.blogspot.com/2006/09/more-unethical-practices-one-maybe-two.html">blog post appears at Diary of a political madman</a>, clearly about the same Iowa poll but listing a transcription of the questions shows that this is a "push-poll,"

<blockquote>1) Would you like your taxes not raised and if possible cut?

2) Do you believe that frivolous and abusive lawsuits cost us all too much money?

</blockquote>

Go read the full list.

EFF push-polling shows up again at the <a href="http://www.indems.org/newsroom_details.asp?id=910">Indiana Democratic Party News</a> page,

<blockquote>INDIANAPOLIS - Voters in Indiana's Ninth District began receiving automated calls yesterday from a group supporting Republican U.S. Rep. Mike Sodrel. The call, which attacks Democratic challenger Baron Hill, was paid for by the Economic Freedom Fund, a Virginia-based 527 special interest group.

In response, Indiana Democrats today called on Attorney General Steve Carter to investigate the calls as a violation of Indiana law. Carter issued a letter in August to both major political parties instructing them that automated political calls violate Indiana's Regulation of Automated Dialing Machines Act (IC 24-5-14).

</blockquote>

So here we have yet another extremely well-funded, nasty front group, deeply connected to the Republican Party, working to undermine our democracy.

Patriot Project will have more - much more - information on this group and its connections in the next few days.  Stay tuned.

<a href="http://www.patriotproject.com/">The Patriot Project</a> is working to expose the front groups, their funding, their connections and their tactics.

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Bell, M & Hiltachk

Attachments