Posted on 08/06/2004 9:08:46 AM PDT by NormsRevenge
SACRAMENTO - Arnold Schwarzenegger's political career has proved to be more than just a boon for the new Republican governor. It has also turned into a lucrative business for the close-knit group of advisers that has helped transform the former actor into a fast-rising political star.
Over the past year, campaign records show, Schwarzenegger's seven top political consultants have earned more than $2.2 million -- and perhaps as much as $3.7 million -- working for the governor.
Since making his surprise campaign announcement one year ago today on ``The Tonight Show With Jay Leno,'' Schwarzenegger has enlisted some of the state and nation's top political talents.
Leading the team is respected Republican strategist Mike Murphy, who has worked for everyone from U.S. Sen. John McCain to Florida Gov. Jeb Bush. Murphy, who opened a Sacramento branch of his political consulting firm after Schwarzenegger took office, has made at least $320,000 working for the governor. Sacramento attorney Tom Hiltachk's law firm has been paid more than $750,000. Veteran media strategist Don Sipple has made an estimated $400,000. Bob White, who served as chief of staff to former GOP Gov. Pete Wilson, earned more than $250,000. And Schwarzenegger fundraiser Marty Wilson has collected at least $215,000.
``You basically have Schwarzenegger Inc. in California,'' said Larry Noble, executive director of the Washington, D.C.-based Center for Responsive Politics.
Because he enlisted top talent, political consultants said Schwarzenegger had to pay top dollar.
``He certainly could have found people to do it for less,'' said Republican media strategist Wayne Johnson, who serves as vice president of the American Association of Political Consultants. ``But he might not be governor.''
(Excerpt) Read more at mercurynews.com ...
Some advisers...LMAO
A year later and we're in worse shape than we were a year ago before the recall...
gezzzzzz
Too bad RINOld didn't stay home...
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