[Peach]

And so did Weldon give up on Able Danger in exchange for getting something passed? I don't understand what people are alluding to here.

[GregoryFul]

Delaware County, PA is home to the Boeing Helicopter plant. Bell-Textron and Boeing Helicopters are partners in the V22 program. The V22 is at least 20 years in the making, and has been close to the military spending chopping block a number of times - due to expense, a number of deadly mishaps during its flight test program, and unusual characteristics of the craft. Weldon has of course backed the V22 program, it is very good for his constituents.

Generally, lots of people and lots of time are involved in a decision like this, and a significant paper trail would be in place to support a bona fide decision. If a considered decision to kill the V22 were to be suddenly flipped by an unseen hand, then one might have reason to suspect some foul play. Absent evidence of a sudden reversal, I would doubt that the contract was let for Weldon's peace.

From what I've seen, the V22 is an excellent vehicle, and provides a unique mission capability, and is wanted by the Marines. But it is expensive per copy ($70 million or so), and so has been a large political target.