Swindell openness wins watchdog groups' praise
Thursday, January 07, 2010
State Sen. A.B. Swindell has been recognized by two influential government watchdog groups for his efforts to open up the political process.
Swindell, a Nash County Democrat, was recognized by Democracy North Carolina and the NC Free Enterprise Foundation. He is one of 32 state legislators to receive the “Sunshine Award” from Democracy North Carolina, a statewide, nonpartisan organization dedicated to increasing government and campaign transparency and voter participation.
The biennial award is given to lawmakers who file “superior” reports disclosing details about their campaign expenses and donations.
“Our staff and interns evaluated the reports of all 170 legislators and found these 32 went beyond the minimum of the law to give the public valuable information about where they got their campaign money and how it’s all spent,” said Bob Hall, the group’s executive director.
Hall said strong disclosure laws “protect the public interest and help educate voters.”
Swindell was also named as one of the most business-friendly members of the state senate by the NC Free Enterprise Foundation.
That nonpartisan group conducts policy research and analysis on business-related issues.
Swindell received the second highest score of any Democrat in the senate in recognition of his work to create jobs and strengthen the state’s economy.
Foundation chairman Jay Rouse said Swindell and other pro-business legislators have “a level of understanding and commitment” to the state’s business community “that is vital to maintaining a positive economic climate” in the state.
“It’s always nice to receive credit for the work you do,” Swindell said. “I know the people I represent sent me to Raleigh to be open and accountable, and work to create jobs and grow our economy. That’s exactly what I’ll keep doing.”