WHILE MD. Lt. Governor Michael Steele has been attempting to appeal to Maryland's substantial Jewish voting bloc, it is interesting to note that he has also ingratiated himself with wealthy donors promulgating a right wing social agenda. It will be interesting to see whether Steele, the group's primary beneficiary other than RICK SANTORUM (!) IN 2006, will be able to identify himself as a social moderate when his financial base is extremist and right wing.
Out of the public eye, about 140 of the nation's wealthiest social and moral conservatives sequestered themselves at a Washington, D.C. hotel this week. Sen. Bill Frist (R-TN) stopped by for lunch. MA Gov. Mitt Romney took their questions at dinner. Susan Allen, the wife of Sen. George Allen, hosted tea. In their own words, these conservatives are working to change the world.
At first glance, the operational secrecy and trappings of The Legacy --- that's what they call themselves -- "Legacy" -- lends itself to conspiracy theories. But The Legacy has an age-old -- and quite transparent -- mission.
[. . .] The group decided to convene private meetings, where candidates seeking their financial support would take questions on subjects ranging from the environment to the death penalty to slavery in the third world. And if candidates demonstrated their commitment to the same principles, the group would reward them by bundling donations from its members to their campaigns. In '04, the group steered money to Senate candidates John Thune in SD and Mel Martinez in FL. (A senior Republican campaign official says the group was a "great help.") This year, Sen. Rick Santorum and MD LG Michael Steele will get the bundled donations. " [. . .ITALICS ADDED]
Membership is uniquely restrictive. Applicants must be recommended by a current member, who must also vouch for their bona fides. Members must profess their belief in God and pledge their fealty to conservative principles guided by Judeo-Christian values. Most are Protestants; a majority is evangelical.
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