OLYMPIA, Wash. (AP) — If Starbucks chief Howard Schultz wants voters to withhold campaign cash from federal politicians, he may need to start with trying to halt the flow coming from the people who work for him.
Starbucks leadership, employees and the company’s lobbying firm have continued to contribute thousands of dollars to federal officeholders despite Schultz’s urging. There’s no evidence the “withhold” movement has had any impact on the flow of money in politics, as third-quarter donations to congressional campaigns were actually higher than during the last election cycle.
Schultz had invited all Americans to join him in withholding campaign contributions to President Barack Obama and members of Congress until a bipartisan deal is reached that stabilizes the nation’s fiscal situation. A spokesman says they are proud of the progress they are making.
