MICHIGAN TAXPAYERS ALLIANCE PICKING WINNERS & LOSERS
Organization turns their back on the democratic process
State Senator Tom George, M.D. (R-Kalamazoo), challenged the Michigan Taxpayers Alliance’s (MTA) decision to rescind their invitation for him to participate in the first Republican Gubernatorial debate scheduled for September 26 from 7:30 – 9:00 am at the biennial Republican Leadership Conference on Mackinac Island.
How did the Michigan Taxpayers Alliance, a 501(c)4 organization dedicated to education and advocacy of tax issues, get in a position to determine who the top four candidates are for Governor? Sen. George was informed today by Leon Drolet, chair of the MTA, that the invitation extended and accepted in July was rescinded.
The reason? WJR is only able to air the debate for one hour. So Mr. Drolet and the organization’s board felt that they should limit who can participate in the debate.
“What are they afraid of and what are they hiding? Michigan Taxpayers Alliance should be ashamed of themselves for selling out their members and turning their backs on the democratic process for a free hour of radio time. The fact that this organization is already picking winners and losers a year in advance of the election erodes their credibility,” said Sen. George.
After hearing today of the organization’s decision, Sen. George spoke with Leon Drolet and made the request that his organization reconsider. Unfortunately Mr. Drolet immediately denied this request.
“It is sad that an organization like the Michigan Taxpayers Alliance is already playing games in an effort to control the election process. What’s next, will they invite only certain individuals to attend this debate?” George said.
Posted: 9/9/2009