Statement on Returning Contributions

Statement on Returning Contributions

After a thorough review of the contributions I received from individuals at Greenberg Traurig, I have concluded they were given to me in a proper manner. In contrast to the illegal activities of Jack Abramoff, there have been no accusations or charges of wrongdoing by authorities or investigators regarding those who gave to me a contribution. It should be noted that their contributions were personal and complied with all legal requirements, and that Greenberg Traurig is a firm of 1,500 attorneys and governmental professionals.

Although I have reached the conclusion that these donations were given properly, I have decided to return these contributions. I am returning them to avoid any appearance of impropriety. The reason for this decision is twofold. First, I believe it's critical to restore integrity in our government and assure the people of Arkansas that I hold their trust in the highest regard. I also believe that we have to address the culture of corruption and the sense that the American people have lost their voice in Washington. This is a belief I hold dear, and I want to restore that voice back to the people. Second, because of my position on the Senate Ethics Committee and the fact that it is probable that we will be dealing with the matters related to Mr. Abramoff, I want to be able to weigh those matters with no perception of impropriety.

With that said, let me state again that the individuals who gave to me have done nothing wrong in the eyes of the law and shouldn't be treated as such, but I feel that it is important for me to do this so that I can work to fix the culture of corruption that exists in Washington.

[Pryor has received the following contributions from individuals who worked at Greenberg Traurig, a firm of 1,500 attorneys and governmental professionals: Eddie Ayoob who gave $300 on 10/28/2002, Ronald Platt $1,000 on 06/26/2001, Richard Garrett $500 on 10/04/2002, Michael Smith $1,000 on 11/04/2002, and Eddie Ayoob who gave another $1,000 on 07/01/2004 after Mr. Abramoff had resigned]

http://pryor.senate.gov/newsroom/details.cfm?id=250327&&