Lobbyist Laurinda's Liberal Loyalties

Research from the campaign finance records now casts further doubt on Lobbyist Laurinda Calongne's loyalties. She has already come under fire for her contributions to Democrats Mary Landrieu and Charlie Melancon. Now we have uncovered a notable contribution from Calongne to failed Democratic Governor Kathleen Blanco's reelection fund.

Just months after Blanco defeated Bobby Jindal in the 2003 gubernatorial election, Calongne contributed $400 to Blanco's reelection campaign fund. Though Blanco opted not to run for reelection, she gave a large portion of her warchest to the state Democratic party and other Democrat campaigns.

Calongne has previously explained that her large contribution to Landrieu was made in a "moment of weakness." It is becoming evident that she had many such moments and chose to back other liberal Democrats. Republican leaders fear she may continue to do the same if she is elected to Congress.

Calongne has already said she opposes Sen. John McCain and President George W. Bush's stance on out-of-control spending and earmark reform. McCain and Bush have called for an end to earmarks, but Calongne has argued passionately against a ban on earmarks. She also has promised to work with San Fransisco liberal Democrat Nancy Pelosi.

If Calongne were to pull off an upset win, Democrats would certainly be pleased as they would likely have a good friend in Calongne.

(To view Blanco's campaign finance report with Calongne's contribution click on story title link above.)