Headline

Headline: “Bono Mack’s Contributors Give a Lot, Get a Lot”; “It’s the Cost Of Doing Business”

In February 2011, it was uncovered that Bono Mack paid quarter-million dollars for political fundraising advice and gave luxurious gifts such as events at Aspen resorts, upscale golf courses and pricey restaurants in Los Angeles, Washington and New York.

Bono Mack’s chief of staff said, “It’s the cost of doing business.” [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Mack backs TV deal that favors big donor”

In January 2011, Rep. Mary Bono Mack signed a letter to the Federal Communications Commission urging them to approve the merger between NBC Universal with Comcast Corp., who gave her $26,750 during her 2010 election. The FCC approved the merger.

Craig Holman of Public Citizen, an advocacy and research organization said it raised questions of ethics and the appearance of quid pro quo. [Desert Sun, 1/26/11]

Headline: “Votes put Bono Mack’s Commitment to National Monument into Question”

In 2011, Bono Mack’s commitment to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument was called into question. In 2000 she launched a legislative effort to support the monuments. She also championed Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to obtain land in the monument. Due, in part, to her efforts there were $8.4 million in LWCF appropriations and 11,100 acres were acquired in the monument.

Despite, her support for the project a columnist John Purcell wrote “It’s not clear, however, that her support will continue. Recent votes give cause for concern.” In 2011, Bono Mack voted for House Resolution 1, which reduced LWCF funding from $85 million nationwide to a mere $2 million. She also voted for an Amendment 193 to HR 1, which cut funds for LWCF down to zero.

At stake in the fiscal year 2011 budget was $500,000 for the Bureau of Land Management for the monument and $1.2 million in funding for acquisitions in the Morongo Canyon Area of Critical Environmental Concern. And in the fiscal year 2012 budget there was $1.2 million for the National Monument. [Columnist, John Purcell, Desert Sun, 4/6/11]

Raised Millions through Resort Fundraisers and Upscale Dinners

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack’s seat cost her four times more than a decade ago to keep. In 2010 Bono Mack raised $2.42 million for her main campaign committee and an additional $122,000 for a separate committee. The Desert Sun reported that “Bono Mack used Aspen resorts, a variety of world-class golf courses and high-end restaurants in Los Angeles, Washington and New York for her 2009-2010 fundraising, Federal Election Commission records show. Particulars included: $23,260 for events at Bighorn Golf Club near Palm Desert; $16,108 for lodging and catering at the St. Regis Resort in Aspen,

plus $416 for ski tickets; $5,935 for events at Classic Club golf course and Bellatrix restaurant in Palm Desert; and $4,469 at Miramonte Resort and Spa in Indian Wells.”

The Desert Sun also reported that Bono Mack also spent “$14,005 for campaign mementos given away as prizes and gifts at fundraising events, including items from the upscale clothing chain Vineyard Vines of Martha’s Vineyard, Mass., and from Nike, Costco, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Buy.com, Reebok Outlet Stores, Bel Promo in Miami, Capitol Hill Art and Frame and the House Gift Shop on Capitol Hill. Meals for contributors costing almost $3,000 per event at Spago in Beverly Hills, and at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Palm Desert…East Coast events that cost $4,776 at Bobby Van’s Steakhouse in Washington; and $1,850 at the Palm Restaurant and $1,675 at the Yale Club, both in New York.” [Desert Sun, 4/11/11]

Senior Said She Didn’t Trust Bono Mack and Republicans Who Would Renege on Promise to Seniors on Medicare and Medicaid

In 2011, Bono Mack’s constituents in a Knitting circle discussed the Republican budget. The Bellingham Herald reported “knitters said they were alarmed by the notion that the next generation might have to shop for insurance with an $8,000 voucher, the Democratic description of Ryan's plan. Some were openly skeptical of Republican promises that current seniors would be protected. ‘I don't trust these guys,’ said Barbara Walden, 77. Once Republicans begin ‘stripping away’ Medicare and Medicaid benefits for the younger generation, she said, they will eventually renege on their promise to protect the program for current seniors.” [Bellingham Herald, 4/23/11]

Clips of Interest

Criticized for Homestead Exemptions on Two Homes

In February 2012, Bono Mack and her husband, Rep. Connie Mack, were criticized by Mack’s political opponents for getting homestead exemptions on both of their homes.

Officials told the Fort Myers News-Press that the couple is legally allowed to file for two exemptions as long as they maintain separate bank accounts, file their taxes separately and confirm neither is on the other’s deed for the property. Public records showed that Bono Mack got a $7,000 exemption on a property worth $1.1 million. [Desert Sun, 2/26/12]

Financial Disclosure Forms Suggested Mack and Bono Mack’s Homestead Exemption was Questionable

In 2012, Rep. Mack defended he and his wife’s dual homestead exemptions by claiming he and his wife kept their finances separate, however their financial disclosure forms suggested otherwise. The forms indicated that he was part of a company formed with Bono to buy a ski resort condo in Colorado, and that his financial health substantially improved immediately after the two married in December 2006.

Mack’s lawyer said the reference on the Colorado deed to the couple as California residents doesn’t mean he lives there, and any involvement in the Colorado transaction would not indicate “financial dependence.” His lawyer denied that Rep. Mack had any interest in the Colorado property or in

2

Westerfield Scotch LLC, a corporation he said was formed by Bono and her children to own it, despite indications in the disclosure forms and property records. [Tampa Tribune, 2/22/12]

Voted for the Ryan Budget Which Would Turn Medicare into Voucher Program

In 2012, Bono Mack voted for the Ryan budget against, which made deep cuts to domestic programs. “more than 62 percent of the cuts would come in programs that serve low-income Americans such as Medicaid, food stamps, Pell Grants for college and job training.”

The Ryan budget would “turn Medicare into a system where the elderly would receive a voucher to purchase coverage from the private sector.” The Ryan budget also “Ryan proposes tax breaks of $265,000 to those who make $1 million or more a year.” [Desert Sun, 4/9/12]

Senator Questioned Rep. Mack and Bono Mack’s Multiple Homestead Exemptions

In 2012, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson questioned Rep. Mack and Bono Mack’s multiple homestead exemptions. Nelson strikes back by questioning Mack having homestead exemption on a condo in Fort Myers, while his wife, U.S. Rep. Mary Bono Mack, has a similar exemption at her home in California. How, Nelson wonders, can Mack and his wife claim two homesteads — and the tax advantages that come with them? The office of the Lee County Property Appraiser Ken Wilkinson says it will look into whether Mack deserves the local exemption. [Editorial, Naples News, 2/29/12]

Hired PhRMA Former Chief Spokesman as a Senior Adviser

Bono Mack hired Ken Johnson, a former chief spokesperson for PhRMA, to act as a senior policy and communications adviser.

Johnson formally worked for Republican Rep. Billy Tauzin when he headed the Energy and Commerce Committee. Johnson followed Tauzin to PhRMA when he left Congress, and reported as making $500,000 in 2009. [Politico, 1/20/11]

Father In Law was Lobbyist and Advised Company with Array of Health Care Clients

According to a Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Congress report, Bono Mack’s father-in-law was a lobbyist. Former Senator Mack was a lobbyist from 2002 through 2009 and is currently a senior policy advisor with The Liberty Partners Group, which lists an array of health-care companies as clients.

Former Senator Mack lobbied first for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, then King & Spalding LLP, and finally for Liberty Partners Group. His lobbying clients spanned a wide range of companies, including Bank of America and Google. [Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Congress, Family Affair Report, 2012]

Opened Door to “Flat Tax”

In 2011, Bono Mack said going to a “flat tax” system might be appealing, but would get rid of some popular deductions, like homeowner interest and charitable donations. “But there’s no question we need a fairer, flatter tax structure,” she said. [Desert Sun, 11/10/11]

3

Took Thousands in Donations from Businessman Who Pled Guilty to Funneling Campaign Contributions to Candidates

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Bono Mack (R-Calif.) got thousands in campaign donations from Larry Minor and his family.”

Larry Minor, a businessman and one of the nation’s largest potato growers, was indicted in a California court on charges of funneling $66,000 in campaign contributions to two candidates for state legislature.

Within 24 hours he pled guilty to violating state contribution limits, he faced 14 counts, but agreed to two misdemeanor charges as a result of his plea deal. By taking the deal he avoided jail and paid a $60,000 fine with three years of probation. [Washington Post, 2/24/11]

Hired PhRMA Former Chief Spokesman as a Senior Adviser

Bono Mack hired Ken Johnson, a former chief spokesperson for PhRMA, to act as a senior policy and communications adviser.

Johnson formally worked for Republican Rep. Billy Tauzin when he headed the Energy and Commerce Committee. Johnson followed Tauzin to PhRMA when he left Congress, and reported as making $500,000 in 2009. [Politico, 1/20/11]

Criticized for not Spending Enough Time in District

Bono Mack has been criticized for spending too little time in her district due to her marriage to Rep. Connie Mack from Florida.

She dismissed the charges saying “I’ve been dealing with this for years,” she went on to say, “Connie hears the same thing. They say he spends too much time in California, and I spend too much time in Florida.” [Desert Sun, 1/18/11]

Flip-Flop: Advocated to Block Efforts to Regulate Greenhouse Gases

Bono Mack said she would block the Obama administration’s efforts to regulate greenhouse gases, despite voting for the cap-and-trade bill in 2009.

Her change of heart was described by her office as “long-standing concerns regarding the role of the EPA and the overly burdensome California standards.” [Politico.com, 2/3/11]

Voted to Cut Programs that Helped 140,000 California Students and Provided Legal Service to Help Veterans Obtain Benefits

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted for the continuing resolution House spending bull that cut more than $100 million from groups that helped some of California’s neediest. The programs on the chopping block included programs that helped families by building affordable homes, mentoring kids, caring for the

4

elderly and providing assistance in under-resourced schools. The LA Times reported “Federal cuts in national service programs could be costly in California.”

House Republicans worked to eliminate AmeriCorps and other national service program who worked for Habitat for Humanity, provided free legal help to veterans struggling to obtain disability benefits. In February 2011, the House approved $1.15 billion in cuts for the Corp. for National and Community Service, effectively shutting down the federal agency that operates AmeriCorps. Other programs that would be eliminated included Senior Corps, which engaged 55 and older in community service and Learn and Serve America, which worked with 140,000 California students.

In a statement Bono Mack said “It’s simply irresponsible to keep borrowing money for programs that we can no longer afford as a nation — no matter how well intentioned.” [LA Times, 4/3/11]

FLIP FLOP: Representative Mary Bono Mack Was For Consumer Protections from Toxic Toys, Now Leads the Fight Against

Back in 2008, Representative Mary Bono Mack voted for consumer protections, particularly those that ensured children were safe from toxic toys. But, now, Representative Mary Bono Mack is leading a subcommittee to undo those rules.

In 2008 Bono Mack voted for the Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act. In 2008, Bono Mack voted for the Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act. [HR 4040, Vote # 543, 7/30/08]

Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act Strengthened Protections on Lead in Toys. In a 2008 press release, Senate Democrats touted the passage of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) because it strengthened protections against children and consumers from toxic toys. The bill banned lead in toys and other children’s products and implemented tougher penalties for violating safety laws. [Senate press release, 8/1/08]

In 2011, Bono Mack Led Subcommittee on Revising Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. On April 7, 2011, Bono Mack led a Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade on revising the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. [Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, opening statement, 4/7/11]

Bono Mack’s Subcommittee Debated Republican Plan to Weaken Protections on Toys, Bicycles and All- Terrain Vehicles. In 2011, Bono Mack convened a hearing on a House Republican plan to weaken the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Under the legislation the makers of toys, bicycles and all- terrain vehicles would face fewer restrictions. Four years after a lead scare involving Barbie accessories from Mattel Inc., toymakers get to redefine what constitutes a children’s product from ages 12 and younger to ages 6 and under. [Bloomberg, 4/7/11]

District Had Low High School Graduation Rate and Income Compared to Rest of California

An analysis of Bono Mack’s 45th district by the American Human Development Project in 2011 found that “Nearly one in four, or 22 percent, do not have a high school education. In California, the number without a high school diploma was 19.8 percent.” Life expectancy was lower in her district, 79 than in

5

California as a whole, 80. “The median household income in 2009 was $26,853; across the state it was $31,007.”

“We are still reviewing the report, but clearly there are a lot of troubling warning signs,” said Ken Johnson, a Bono Mack spokesman. “Congresswoman Bono Mack is most concerned by the large number of people who are not graduating from high school, as well as the underlying health reasons, such as obesity and diabetes, which are contributing to lower life expectancies.

“But the congresswoman also believes the report can help to bring community leaders together to find ways to make a great place to live even better.” [Desert Sun, 5/18/11]

Wrote Letter to EPA Expressing Concerned When Students Got Sick in Mecca

In 2011, Bono Mack sent a letter to the EPA expressing concern for Saul Martinez students getting sick from a soil-recycling plant close to the school. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency took steps to halt waste shipments to the soil-recycling plant that the agency and residents believed was causing an odor that sickened Mecca residents. Paramedics had to go to Saul Martinez Elementary School to treat sickened students and teachers at least three times. State air quality officials have received more than 200 complaints. Rep. Mary Bono Mack sent a letter to the EPA in January, expressing concern for Saul Martinez students and calling for help to solve the problem. [Desert Sun, 5/10/11]

Supported a Republican Plan to Reduce Funding for the Environmental Protection Agency While Demanding that the Agency Fix Air Problem Making Residents Sick

In June 2011, the nonprofit group Pueblo Unido called on Bono Mack to protect the Environmental Protection agency from budget cuts in light of chronic odor issues in Mecca. She was criticized by the group for calling for EPA budget cuts, while directing the agency to figure out the source of the odor that sickened Mecca-area residents. The Desert Sun reported “Bono Mack supported a Republican plan to reduce federal spending by nearly $6 trillion over the next decade, including deep cuts to the EPA.”

Bono Mack joined other state and federal lawmakers to bring attention to the Mecca environmental issue by sending a letter to the EPA in January 2011. District director Marc Troast said Bono Mack is committed to addressing the odor issue but believes that the federal government must see “cuts across the board” to solve the budget deficit. [Desert Sun, 6/02/11]

Non-Committal on Supporting Renewable Energy Programs that Created 200 Jobs

In 2011, Bono Mack joined state and local officials and celebrated the progress of the Solar Trust of America, Blythe plant a massive solar project. However, she remained a critic of the $787 billion stimulus act that provided a $2.1 billion Department of Energy loan guarantee, critical for the plan to receive private financing. Ground was broken in June, 2011 and the project was expected to employ more than 1,000 in construction and more than 200 workers permanently. Republicans sought to end the loan guarantees and grants for renewable energy industries.

Bono Mack hypocritically celebrated the Blythe plant and other solar projects, but voted against the stimulus act that helped make the project possible. Bono Mack’s spokesperson was non-committal on

6

weather Bono Mack would not support continuing the renewable energy loan guarantees or Treasury grants. [Desert Sun, 7/4/11]

Applauded Blythe Solar Power Project and 295 Permanent Jobs it Would Create

In a 2010 press release, Rep. Bono Mack applauded the Solar Millennium, LLC, energy project called the Blythe Solar Power Project. In her press release she touted the fact that the project was the largest solar energy project ever to be built on public lands. She said, “The installation of the Blythe Solar Power is a great milestone for our community.   At its peak, this project will produce 1,000 mega-watts of much-needed energy and provide power to approximately 300,000 single-family homes and also create an estimated 1,066 construction jobs and 295 permanent jobs.”

She went on to say, “I am proud Riverside County is now home to Solar Millennium and what will soon be the largest solar energy project on public lands. I look forward to continuing my work supporting this and other projects in Riverside County that will harness our local energy resources and help reduce our dependence on foreign oil.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 10/25/10]

Wrote that Businesses Should Pay No More than 25 Percent Tax Rate

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack wrote that U.S. businesses should pay a tax rate of no more than 25 percent, “let’s encourage innovation and job growth by lowering the tax rate on U.S. businesses to no more than 25 percent.” [Daily Caller, 6/21/11]

Bill to Protect Consumer Safety from Hackers was Criticized for Failing to Adequately Protect Consumers

In 2011, Bono Mack was criticized by Rep. Waxman for introducing a bill to protect consumer information from hackers that he said failed to protect consumers. Bono Mack touted that her legislation proposed national standards for database security, as well as notification of affected parties if systems are penetrated. Waxman said, “Unfortunately, there are many more changes that weaken the last Congress' bill rather than strengthen it.” He said her legislation was written loosely and would allow companies to take months before alerting affected consumers. Waxman also said the bill “failed to adequately regulate information brokers, companies that aggregate data on individuals and sell it for profit. And he said it defined personal information in a way that leaves ‘significant ambiguity.’” [Desert Sun, 6/16/11]

Flip Flipped on Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

In 2011, Bono Mack voted to repeal light bulb efficiency standards, after she voted for the efficiency standards in 2007.

A Bono Mack spokesperson said, “Congresswoman Bono Mack has serious concerns about how the new efficiency standards will affect American consumers and businesses, who are struggling to make ends meet.”

He went on to say, “The Congresswoman does not believe we should be imposing any new costs on consumers or businesses during these tough times.” [Gannett Washington Bureau, 7/18/11]

7

Raised $190,000 in Second Quarter, Received Koch Industries Donation

In the second fundraising quarter of 2011 Bono Mack received  $2,500 from Koch Industries. She also received money from AT&T, Blue Cross and US Oncology, and her $1,500 political action committee donors included Honeywell International and Walmart. Bono Mack raised nearly $190,000 in the second quarter, and had a total of $371,861 cash on hand. [North County Times, 7/18/11]

Democrats Saw Opportunity in Bono Mack’s District Due to Redistricting and Her Vote for Ryan Budget

In 2011,  Greg Rodriguez on the executive boards of the Riverside County and California State Democratic Party wrote “Rep. Mary Bono Mack's continued move to the far right, especially with the vote on the Paul Ryan budget, provides ample room for a Democratic candidate to win this seat with a good campaign team and a clear message on how our current representative votes against the will and needs of the district.” [Columnist, Greg Rodriguez, Desert Sun, 8/7/11]

Described as an Incumbent who Should be Concerned

In 2011, Bono Mack was listed as an incumbent in California who should be concerned. The Hill reported, “Other incumbents who should be concerned include Democrats Linda Sanchez and Jim Costa, and Republicans Brian Bilbray, Dan Lungren and Mary Bono Mack.” [The Hill, 7/28/11]

Agriculture Issues

Said Cuts to Federal Crop Subsidies Should be Brought to the Table Due to Debt

In 2011, California farmers were warned about possible cuts to federal crop subsidies due to the budget crisis, and although Bono Mack always fought for her district, she said everything should be up for discussion. Bono Mack’s spokesman for the Palm Springs Republican said, “Congresswoman (Mary) Bono Mack has always fought for issues critically important to her district and will continue to do so… But faced with a looming $15 trillion national debt, the congresswoman believes everything should be on the table — from defense spending to farm subsidies to oil subsidies.”

California received $9.7 billion in crop payments from 1995-2010, which placed itself 10th in the nation. Bono Mack’s 45th Congressional District ranked 12th among California’s 53 congressional districts in subsidies from 1995 to 2010 with $65.7 million. [My Desert, 7/11/11]

Voted to Limit Subsidies to Farms

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted for Earl Blumenauer’s amendment to limit subsidies to farms that earned more than $250,000 a year. [San Francisco Chronicle, 2/28/11]

Biographical Issues

Announced the Birth of First Grandchild

8

In February 2012, Bono Mack and her husband, Congressman Connie Mack., announced the birth of their first grandchild.

“We are so delighted and thrilled with the birth of our first grandson, Sonny William Hrabe,” Bono Mack said in a statement. “Both mom and baby are healthy and doing very well, and Chianna is overjoyed about becoming a mother.” [Palm Desert Patch, 2/16/12]

Sonny Bono’s Trust Still One of Bono Mack’s Leading Personal Financial Assets

In 2012, Bono Mack, the widow of singer Sonny Bono, continued to report the Bono Collection Trust as one of her leading personal financial assets, worth $250,000 to $500,000. [Gannett News Service, 2/10/12]

Budget Issues

Bono Mack Said She was Happy with Earmarks

Prioritizing funding, transportation funding off of highway 86. That was a matter of earmarks. So I’m also happy to say that we’ve sent money to Cal State San Joaquin, up to the nursing school. So I’ve been very pleased in standing behind any earmark that I would have asked for. I agree we need some sort of system to come back to us or as local elected representatives…projects that are very important to our district. If we don’t do it some unaccountable bureaucrat is doing it. Doesn’t make sense to me. [Mexican American Chamber of Commerce Breakfast, .05, 4/4/12]

Denounced GSA Vegas Conference

In 2012, Bono Mack denounced the GSA Las Vegas conference saying “This was an outrageous waste of taxpayers' money. It reminds me of ‘Dumb and Dumber.’” [Desert Sun, 4/18/12]

Headline: “State of the Union address: Rep. Mary Bono Mack slams ‘class warfare’”

In 2012, in reaction to President Obama’s State of the Union Address said the president offered no new plans and said it was “class warfare” to design a tax reform plan around making the wealthy pay more. [Desert Sun, 1/25/12]

Bono Mack Urged to Fight to Keep North Palm Springs Post Office Open

In 2012, Misty Mullins, a former employee at the North Palm Springs post office urged people to write to Bono Mack to keep the post office open. “I’m telling people to write a letter to (Rep.) Mary Bono Mack, the United States Postal Service and anyone else they think can help,” Mullins said. But after more than 20 years, the community’s tiny post office was set to close March 2, and locals were upset they’re losing the post office. [Desert Sun, 1/30/12]

Supported Husband’s Debt Plan Which Proposed Cutting Total Spending by 1 Percent a Year for Six Years

9

In 2011, Bono Mack backed her husband’s deficit reduction plan, despite the fact that she was initially hesitant to back the plan. She said she supported the Mack Penny Plan. She said, “the Mack Penny Plan is also good public policy, achieving a balanced budget by 2019 through a series of annual 1 percent cuts to all federal spending.” The legislation proposed cutting total federal spending by 1 percent a year for six years; setting a spending cap of 18 percent of gross domestic product in 2018; and reducing overall spending by $7.5 trillion over the course of 10 years. [Desert Sun, 9/18/11]

Said Cuts and Credit Rating were Reasons for Her Support of Final Debt Ceiling Deal

In 2011, Bono Mack said she voted for the final debt ceiling deal to protect the country’s credit rating and she felt the cuts in the bill were a good start to reducing the nation’s debt.

“Within 25 years, interest on our nation’s debt, as well as entitlement spending, will surpass all federal revenues,” Bono Mack Said. “Tough decisions must still be made. But to save critically important programs like Social Security and Medicare, it’s imperative that we finally close the curtain on runaway deficits.” [Palm Desert Patch, 8/1/11]

Voted for Cut, Cap and Balance Act

In 2011, Bono Mack voted for Cut, Cap and Balance Act. In a statement Bono Mack said, “At the rate we’re going, interest on the national debt and spending on entitlements will surpass all federal revenues within 25 years, jeopardizing the futures of our children and their children. The Cut, Cap and Balance Act will force Washington to live within its means, just like American families have to do.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 7/20/11]

Pressured by Protestors about the Congressional Deadlock on the National Debt

In 2011, protestors gathered outside of Bono Mack’s Palm Desert office in protest of the congressional deadlock on the national debt. Bono Mack said the debt ceiling plan would be approved without raising taxes. She believed in Speaker Boehner’s blueprint of the future. “It provides for immediate reductions in government spending and also places strict caps on future discretionary spending.  Just as importantly, it requires both the House and Senate to have a straight up-or-down vote on a Balanced Budget Amendment this year, which will force the federal government to live within its means,” said Bono Mack in a statement. [Murrieta Patch, 7/26/11]

Said She Would Vote Against Raising Debt Ceiling

In 2011, Bono Mack said she would vote against raising the debt ceiling. The Palm Desert Patch wrote, “Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs, plans to vote against legislation to raise the national debt ceiling, her office announced.”

“It’s time for the federal government to cut up its credit cards,” Bono Mack said in a statement. “We can no longer afford to keep borrowing money for programs – no matter how well intentioned – when our national debt is growing by a staggering $4 billion a day.” [Palm Desert Patch, 5/27/11]

Faced Demonstrations Due to Votes on the Continuing Resolution to Cut Programs

10

In March 2011, protesters from Move on and PDA demonstrated outside of Bono Mack’s office due to her votes to extend budget cuts and continuing resolutions. A protester said the budget deal Bono Mack voted for gutted health care, environmental protections, and housing assistance. Bono Mack released a statement saying “Making these difficult decisions is not easy, and many good programs are going to be cut or eliminated in the months and years ahead. But tough times require tough choices.” [Desert Sun, 3/15/11]

Said She Would Review Ryan Budget Proposal

In April 2011, Bono Mack said she looked forward to reviewing Ryan’s budget proposal. “I look forward to carefully reviewing the House Budget Committee’s proposal and commend Chairman Ryan for his willingness to begin a long overdue and critically important debate over ways – some controversial and many painful – to end runaway deficits, reduce our staggering national debt and ensure prosperity for future generations of Americans.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 4/5/11]

Despite Initially Praising the Republican Paul Ryan Budget Bono Mack was Still Reviewing Plan

In 2011, Bono Mack was on the fence on the Republican Paul Ryan budget proposal. It was reported that “Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs, quickly posted announcements on both her website and her Facebook page calling attention to Ryan's proposal. One had the headline “’Republican Budget Blueprint Cuts Spending, Reduces Deficit.’” She also had a statement saying “I look forward to carefully reviewing the House Budget Committee's proposal and commend Chairman Ryan for his willingness to begin a long overdue and critically important debate over ways — some controversial and many painful — to end runaway deficits, reduce our staggering national debt and ensure prosperity for future generations of Americans. It's time to stop kicking the can down the road.”

However, her staff said that wasn’t necessarily an endorsement. Her aid said “It is totally incorrect to say she supports the Ryan plan. We are still reviewing it.” Bono Mack “simply applauded Chairman Ryan for having the political courage to begin a critically important discussion about the nation's looming $15 trillion debt, which is threatening the future prosperity of America.” He went on to say “She was only saying that any honest discussion of our nation's growing financial problems has to take a look at all federal spending, including defense — and not just discretionary spending.” [Citizen-Times, 4/10/11]

Was Happy Government Didn’t Shutdown – Saw Deal as First Step to Cutting Government Spending

After a government shutdown was averted in April 2011, Bono Mack issued a statement saying she was pleased an agreement had been reached. “I am pleased that congressional leaders reached an agreement, which averts a government shutdown and makes record spending cuts to the federal budget. We have a lot more work to do, but this is an important first step in cutting excessive government spending and ensuring our nation’s future economic strength.” [Murrieta Patch, 4/8/11]

Bono Mack’s Spokesman Expressed Her Support for Shutdown “to get America’s Financial House in Order”

Bono Mack’s spokesman said “While no one wants to see a government shutdown, Congresswoman Bono Mack believes we have an obligation,” especially to the future generations “to get America’s financial house in order,” her spokesman Ken Johnson said.

11

“Faced with a crushing $15 trillion national debt in the not-too-distant future, she believes a dramatic course correction is needed to avert a financial catastrophe. Her hope is that Congress can debate these issues openly and then agree to cut unnecessary and ineffective programs without resorting to threats of a government shutdown.” [Desert Sun, 3/28 /11]

Headline: Federal Shutdown Would Hit Region Hard

The Desert Sun reported that the “Federal shutdown would hit region hard.” Riverside and San Bernardino counties had a combined civilian, nondefense federal payroll of $492.5 million a year, if a shut-down were to occur the majority of workers would likely have to go without pay. Civilian employees of the Defense Department earned $269 million annually between the two counties according to the Census Bureau. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported almost 8,500 federal employees in Riverside and 16,400 in San Bernardino. [Desert Sun, 3/28/11]

Hundreds of Thousands in Salaries and Wages Would be Sucked Out of Local Economy with Shut Down

According to the Desert Sun, “hundreds of thousands of dollars a day in salaries and wages — and the local spending of those wages — are likely to be sucked out of the economies of the 45th and 41st Congressional districts.” [Desert Sun, 3/28/11]

Executive Director of Redlands Chamber of Commerce Said Federal Government Shut Down Would Have “Extraordinary Impact”

The Desert Sun reported that the executive director of the Redlands Chamber of Commerce was worried about a federal government shut down. Kathie Thurston said “Any time money doesn’t circulate, it puts a damper on everything,” She went on to say that a shutdown would have an “extraordinary impact.” [Desert Sun, 3/28/11]

Joshua Tree National Park Would Likely Shut Down; Park Brought in $3 Million a Year

According to a Congressional Research Service common and necessary government services would be slowed or halted. Facilities such as the Mojave National Preserve and Joshua Tree National Park would probably be closed. Joshua Tree National Park brought in about $3 million a year in revenues. Additionally, museums and monuments would likely close, many services for veterans would stop and the processing of applications by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms would be delayed. [Desert Sun, 3/28/11]

On the Budget: “What part of ‘we’re going broke’ doesn’t the White House understand?”

In a statement on the budget, Bono Mack said, “What part of ‘we’re going broke’ doesn’t the White House understand?”

“It’s time for Washington to start living in the real world. The federal government simply cannot keep borrowing trillions of dollars today and putting off the difficult decisions of how to repay it until

12

tomorrow. This jeopardizes the future of our children — and their children. Sweeping budget cuts are needed right now to help guarantee a more prosperous future for everyone.” [Desert Sun, 2/15/11]

Touted Continuing Resolution Stating the Days of Tax and Spend are Dead and Gone

In February 2011, Bono Mack said she voted for the Continuing Resolution because “this sends a clear signal to the White House that the days of tax and spend are dead and gone.”

She went on to say “Making these difficult decisions is not easy, and many good programs are going to be cut or even eliminated in the months and years ahead. But tough times require tough choices.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 2/19/11]

Said She Would Forego Pay in Event of Government Shut Down

March 2011, Bono Mack said she would forego pay in the event of a government shutdown. “If there’s a vote calling for members of Congress to forego their pay during a shutdown, as suggested by Sen. Boxer, I will support it,” said Bono Mack in a statement. [Gannett News Service, 3/3/11]

Business and Consumer Issues

Touted American Jobs Saying There Were Too Many Impediments to Business Growth

In 2012, Bono Mack touted Tala Enterprise that brought clothing production back to the U.S. and created 31 jobs. “I think Liat is the perfect person to spearhead this,” said Bono Mack. “It is time in America to recognize that we need to make ‘Made in America’ matter again,” she said, saying businesses are overtaxed, over-litigated and over-regulated. “It is time to remove those impediments so our American businesses can flourish.” [Desert Sun, 1/4/12]

Received Award from U.S. Chamber of Commerce

In 2011, it was reported that while giving a speech at the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast meeting, Bono Mack received an award for her pro-business voting record from the western regional executive director of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. [Desert Sun, 11/9/11]

Called Businesses “Over-taxed, Over-litigated, and Over-regulated”

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack addressed questions from constituents on the economy and the budget crisis.

“The reason our manufacturing has gone to China and Mexico is because our businesses are over-taxed, over-litigated and over-regulated,” Bono Mack said. “The big government solution isn’t the answer to all of our problems.” [Desert Sun, 10/2/11]

Called for “Moratorium” on Regulations and Lower Taxes on Businesses

13

In 2011, Bono Mack gave a speech at the GOP Convention and called for “cuts, cuts, cuts” in federal spending while allowing American ingenuity to run free after being “held hostage by a regulatory regime.” Bono Mack laid out a plan that called for placing a “moratorium on any job-killing regulations.” Encouraging innovation through lower tax rates for U.S. businesses, protecting intellectual property, opening foreign markets to American-made products and increasing alternative energy production. [Desert Sun, 9/18/11]

Consumer Product Regulation Reform Bill Passed with Bi-Partisan Support

In 2011, Bono Mack’s bill reforming consumer product regulations that hampered businesses since enacted in 2008 passed the House and Senate with only two votes against the bill. The law specifically excluded powersports vehicles from the lead content provisions of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act.

“As a nation, we simply cannot afford to lose jobs or stifle innovation because of questionable regulations,” Bono Mack said. “But we also have an obligation to make certain that our children’s toys remain safe. This bill is a win for everyone. It’s good for American consumers and American businesses and will save American jobs.” [Desert Sun, 8/1/11]

Bill to Protect Consumer Safety was Criticized for Failing to Adequately Protect Consumers

In 2011, Rep. Waxman criticized Bono Mack for introducing a bill to protect consumer information from hackers that he said failed to protect consumers. Bono Mack touted that her legislation proposed national standards for database security, as well as notification of affected parties if systems are penetrated. Waxman said, “Unfortunately, there are many more changes that weaken the last Congress' bill rather than strengthen it.” He said her legislation was written loosely and would allow companies to take months before alerting affected consumers. Waxman also said the bill “failed to adequately regulate information brokers, companies that aggregate data on individuals and sell it for profit. And he said it defined personal information in a way that leaves ‘significant ambiguity.’” [Desert Sun, 6/16/11]

Called for a “a Moratorium on Any Job-Killing Regulations”

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack advocated for reducing “non-essential federal spending.” Her first point read, “Moving forward, we should also require Congressional approval for all major rules and regulations imposing significant new costs on the economy.” She claimed federal rules and regulations cost Americans $1.75 million a year or $15,000 per household. She also called for “a moratorium on any job-killing regulations.” [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Daily Caller, 6/23/11]

Advocated for Lowering Business Tax Rates to No More Than 25 Percent

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack’s second step was lowering the tax rate for businesses and ensuring that U.S. businesses paid no more than 25 percent. [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Daily Caller, 6/23/11]

Urged for More Intellectual Property Protection

14

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack said, “…we need to make intellectual property protection a top priority.” She claimed, “…the theft of U.S. intellectual property costs our economy hundreds of billions of dollars a year,” and also leads to job loss. [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Daily Caller, 6/23/11]

Wrote that Businesses Should Pay No More than 25 Percent Tax Rate

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack wrote that U.S. businesses should pay a tax rate of no more than 25 percent, “let’s encourage innovation and job growth by lowering the tax rate on U.S. businesses to no more than 25 percent.” [Daily Caller, 6/21/11]

Said Business Leaders Wanted Small Government

Rep. Bono Mack held roundtable with business leaders and said they were concerned about big government. “It’s a good thing. It’s a good thing that people are getting engaged and getting involved in recognizing a big government solution is not the answer to moving our country forward,” said Bono Mack.

She also tweeted “Just finished regulatory round table discussion in Palm Desert. Main takeaway? Government is making it harder, not easier to create jobs.” [KESQ.com, 4/26/11]

FLIP FLOP: Representative Mary Bono Mack Was For Consumer Protections from Toxic Toys, Now Leads the Fight Against

Back in 2008, Representative Mary Bono Mack voted for consumer protections, particularly those that ensured children were safe from toxic toys. But, now, Representative Mary Bono Mack is leading a subcommittee to undo those rules.

In 2008 Bono Mack voted for the Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act. In 2008, Bono Mack voted for the Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act. [HR 4040, Vote # 543, 7/30/08]

Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act Strengthened Protections on Lead in Toys. In a 2008 press release, Senate Democrats touted the passage of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) because it strengthened protections against children and consumers from toxic toys. The bill banned lead in toys and other children’s products and implemented tougher penalties for violating safety laws. [Senate press release, 8/1/08]

In 2011, Bono Mack Led Subcommittee on Revising Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. On April 7, 2011, Bono Mack led a Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade on revising the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008. [Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, opening statement, 4/7/11]

Bono Mack’s Subcommittee Debated Republican Plan to Weaken Protections on Toys, Bicycles and All- Terrain Vehicles. In 2011, Bono Mack convened a hearing on a House Republican plan to weaken the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Under the legislation the makers of toys, bicycles and all- terrain vehicles would face fewer restrictions. Four years after

15

a lead scare involving Barbie accessories from Mattel Inc., toymakers get to redefine what constitutes a children’s product from ages 12 and younger to ages 6 and under. [Bloomberg, 4/7/11]

Worked to Restrict Consumer Product Safety Commission Complaint Database

In 2011, Bono Mack sponsored a bill to restrict Consumer Product Safety Commission's complaint database. She argued that the people who were allowed to submit complaints should be restricted and claims that were inaccurate should be resolved. She said the database may “do more harm than good if it misleads consumers based on inaccurate information.”

Bono Mack's proposal would only allow complaints from consumers were harmed or nearly harmed, members of their family, their lawyers or others they designate, which would rule out consumer groups. [Reno Gazette-Journal, 4/12/11]

Criticized Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act for Negative Effect of Job Creators

During her opening statement of the Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Bono Mack said there were unintended consequences of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008.

She said, “As a mother, I have very strong, passionate feelings about protecting all children… But as a former small business owner, I know all too well how unnecessary regulations - even well intentioned ones - can destroy lives, too. This is a rare opportunity to put aside the differences that often divide this great body and put our heads together to make a good law even better.” [U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce, 2/18/11]

Said She Would Ensure Regulatory Fairness and a Moratorium on Job-Killing Regulations

In her opening statement for the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Bono Mack said, “We can do that by, among other things, ensuring regulatory fairness. Rules and regulations imposed by Washington cost Americans more than $1.75 trillion each year. We need to place an immediate moratorium on any job-killing regulations and establish a more fair and transparent review process. The way forward is clear: creating new jobs and preserving existing jobs here at home should be our top priority. It will strengthen our economy, reduce the deficit, enhance U.S. competiveness and restore pride in ‘Made in America.’” [Congressional Documents and Publications, 3/3/11]

Bono-Mack Opposed Net-Neutrality

Rep. Bono-Mack wrote an opinion piece in The Hill opposing net-neutrality and any attempt to regulate the internet, calling the move “bad for consumers, innovation and investment.”

She claims that the FCC would be given an inordinate amount of power, writing, “At its core, the FCC’s plan to regulate the Internet will force businesses and people to check first with the government and get permission to innovate. Under this regime the FCC, not the free market, would determine what can be done online and what should be given priority.” [The Hill, 1/04/11]

Rules Meant to Prevent Cable and Phone Companies from Exercising Too Much Control

16

The FCC says the rules are a way to prevent cable and phone companies from exercising too much control over the content and applications that run over their networks.

Staunch net-neutrality advocates say the rules too weak to protect consumers. But the policy was still imposing enough to earn vocal criticism from Congressional Republicans. [The Hill, 1/04/11]

Campaign Finance Issues

Boehner Fundraised at $1,000 Per Person Event for Bono Mack

In 2012, Speaker Boehner was expected to be in the desert to raise money for Republican Rep. Mary Bono Mack's re-election bid. Boehner was scheduled to attend a $1,000-per-person fundraiser at the Legacy Villas in La Quinta. [Desert Sun, 3/28/12]

Headline: Raul Ruiz bests Mary Bono Mack in fundraising in first quarter for congressional race

In 2012, Bono Mack’s democratic opponent Ruiz outraised her. [Desert Sun, 4/17/12]

Political Director Claimed Opponent Raised Money from Left Wing Celebrities

In 2012, Bono Mack’s political director claimed that her Democratic challenger raised a lot of money due to “significant left wing celebrity support.” [Banning-Beaumont Patch, 4/16/12]

Bono Mack and Her Husband Received Nearly $50,000 in Donations from Hooters

In 2012, it was reported that Bono Mack and her husband received nearly $50,000 in donations from Hooters. [Blog, Politico, 3/27/12]

Headline: John Boehner expected at La Quinta fundraiser for Mary Bono Mack

In March 2012, Bono Mack raised money with House Speaker John Boehner. Boehner was scheduled to attend a $1,000-per-person fundraiser at the Legacy Villas in La Quinta Sunday evening.

Boehner was a longtime supporter of Bono Mack and described the Palm Springs Republican as “an accomplished legislator and a well-respected leader in the Republican Party.” [Desert Sun, 4/28/12]

Supported Legislation that Would Benefit the Entertainment Firms that Donated Thousands to Her Campaign

In 2012, Bono Mack, as head of the Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, had a lengthy history of supporting legislation important to entertainment firms. She co-sponsored a highly controversial measure intended to make it harder for rogue foreign websites to pirate movies, music and other intellectual property and has also championed legislation to limit file-sharing on the Internet. [Gannett News Service, 2/10/12]

17

Received Thousands in Contributions from Prominent Individuals in Hollywood

In 2012, Bono Mack received thousands in campaign contributions from prominent individuals in Hollywood. Those contributions from prominent individuals associated with the entertainment companies included Burt Sugarman of the Giant Group and wife Mary H. Sugarman (TV celebrity Mary Hart), $1,250 apiece; Brad A. Grey of Viacom, $1,000; Frederick Huntsberry, chief operating officer of Paramount Pictures, $1,000; Thomas E. Rothman, chairman of Twentieth Century Fox, $1,000; Michael O’Leary, vice president of the Motion Picture Association, $1,000; Gregory Frazier, executive vice president of the Motion Picture Association, $1,000; Rebecca L. Prentice, vice president of Paramount, $1,000; and Mark Badagliacca, chief financial officer of Paramount, $1,000. [Gannett News Service, 2/10/12]

Honored By Award from Associated Builders and Contractors

In 2012, the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) honored Bono Mack for her support of “free enterprise, individual liberty, limited government and personal responsibility.” ABC is a national association with 75 chapters representing construction firms with over 2 million employees across the U.S.

ABC Vice President Geoff Burr said, “We applaud your efforts to keep America strong by protecting our workforce and creating economic opportunities for the contractors in California and across the nation.” Burr added that the award reflected Bono Mack’s strong “commitment to fair competition and free enterprise.” [California.RealEstateRama.com, 2/9/12]

Received Thousands from Entertainment Industry

In 2012, TV, movies and music continued to be the top giving industry to Bono Mack. Individuals and political action committees involved with those sectors have donated $74,550 of the $796,088 that Bono Mack raised for her re-election committee, the Mary Bono Mack Committee, and her personal political action committee, Mary’s PAC.Some of the company-specific totals for 2012 campaign included:

National Amusements Inc.: $11,250 The Walt Disney Co.: $4,000 Motion Picture Association of America: $3,000 Sony Pictures: $2,500

Note: National Amusements is the world leader in operating movie theaters and is the parent company of CBS and Viacom. [Gannett News Service, 2/10/12]

Bono Mack Received Money from Husbands Family and Spent Time in Florida Campaigning

In 2012, it was reported that Bono Mack received money from her husband’s family in the fourth quarter of 2011. “She also received money from the family of her husband, Republican Rep. Connie Mack of Florida. Bono Mack was in Florida on Monday, campaigning for her husband and Republican presidential front- runner Mitt Romney. Connie Mack is running for the U.S. Senate.” [Desert Sun, 1/30/12]

18

More than Half of Bono Mack’s Contributions Came from PACs in Fourth Quarter of 2011

In 2012, it was reported that more than half of Bono Mack’s contributions in the fourth quarter of 2011 came from political action committees, including the Motion Picture Association of America and groups that are tied to major wireless phone companies. Bono Mack also received donations from Indio Mayor Glenn Miller, Councilwoman Jan Harnik of Palm Desert, Mayor Pro Tem Bill Powers of Indian Wells. [Desert Sun, 1/30/12]

Received Donations Primarily from Big Business

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack’s donations in the third quarter of 2011 came primarily from large corporations in the pharmaceutical, telecom and energy industries, as well as the healthcare industry. [Commentary, KCET, 10/19/11]

Had a Lease on a Ford CR on the Taxpayer Dime

In 2011, Bono Mack had a lease through the federal government on a Ford CR. Taxpayers footed a monthly $682.94 bill so she could have a car in DC. [2011 3nd Quarter Statements of Disbursement, accessed 11/29/11]

Received Large Amounts of Money from Few Donors – Claimed There was No Added Influence

In 2011, Bono Mack received large amounts of money from about nine wealthy contributors, but claimed contributions did not lead to added influence with her. Her office said “She takes positions based on the merits of each issue and has never allowed any expression of support to influence her position or votes.” However, Bono Mack received a large amount of money from nine wealthy contributors and their spouses fueling her 2012 re-election campaign and helping her buy influence within the Republican party through a “joint fundraising committee.”

The Desert Sun reported, “Political experts say the donations to the party make it more likely she will get help should the Palm Springs Republican face a competitive race. The donations could also help her congressional career, should she want a change in committee assignments, a House leadership post or some other congressional perk.” [Desert Sun, 12/5/11]

The major contributors to the Mary Bono Mack Victory Fund included: Greg Renker of Woodland Hills. Renker is co-founder of the Guthy-Renker LLC, a television

marketing firm headquartered in Palm Desert. For 2012, Renker and his wife, Stacey, have so far given the Victory Fund $20,000. In 2010 election cycle, they gave $70,800.

Jerry Perenchio of Bel Air. Founder of Univision, the Spanish-language television network, Perenchio also ran a highly successful television production company, Tandem Productions, before selling it to Coca-Cola. For the 2012 elections, he and his wife have so far given $10,000.

Anne W. Marion of Fort Worth, Texas. In 2009, Marion made Forbes’ list of the wealthiest Americans with a net worth of $1.1 billion, based largely on oil. She is chairman of Burnett Oil Co. and owner of 345,000 acres of ranch land, ranking her 22nd among the 100 largest landowners in America, according to The Land Report magazine. For the 2012 elections, she has so far given $10,000.

19

Michael Bozick of Indian Wells. President of Richard Bagdasarian Inc., a grape-growing operation near Mecca. For the 2012 elections, he has so far given $20,000.

Michael S. Shannon of Milwaukee. Managing director of KSL Capitol Partners, a private equity firm dedicated to investments in travel and leisure businesses and former president and chief executive officer of Vail Associates Inc., owners of the Vail and Beaver Creek resorts in Colorado. For the 2012 elections, he and his wife have so far given $20,000.

Katherine Alden of Menlo Park. Chief executive officer of Woodside Hotels and Resorts. For the 2012 elections, she has so far given $10,000.

Harold Matzner of Palm Springs. Chief executive officer of CBA Industries Inc., a publishing company in Wayne, N.J. For the 2012 elections, he has so far given $20,000.

Rodney Swan of La Canada Flintridge. Managing partner of Swan Farms in Cibola, Ariz. For the 2012 elections so far, he has given $20,000. [Desert Sun, 12/5/11]

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Mack won’t talk about News Corp. campaign donations”

During the 2009-2010 cycle, Bono Mack received $12,000 from News Corp. employees and political action committees, ranking first among House Republicans. She refused to answer questions on the donations until it was shown that News Corp. was acting illegally in the U.S.

When asked whether Bono Mack would give the donations back, Bono Mack’s Chief of Staff called it hypothetical, and said “We would have to look at it” if further allegations arose. Bono Mack was involved in a wide range of telecommunications and consumer privacy issues as chairman of the subcommittee on commerce, manufacturing and trade in the House Energy and Commerce Committee. [Desert Sun, 7/23/11]

Editorial: Criticized for Failing to Disclose Whether She Would Return Money from News Corp.

In 2011, the Desert Sun editorialized against Bono Mack’s for failing to disclose whether she would return money from News Corp. The paper wrote, “They’re also free to keep the money. But when a donor is accused of serious wrongdoing — as is the case with mogul Rupert Murdoch’s massive media empire — voters want and deserve to know about lawmaker connections. Bono Mack owes us an answer.” [Editorial, Desert Sun, 7/30/11]

Sent Letters to Trade Associations About Privacy

In response to alleged hacking by News Corp., Bono Mack sent a letter to various trade associations asking whether there was a need for new privacy laws.

She wrote “It’s critically important to ask American industries involved in all parts of the communications stream of commerce — from device manufacturers to fixed wire and wireless providers — whether they are satisfied that sufficient safeguards are in place to prevent similar privacy breaches here in the United States.” [Desert Sun, 7/21/11]

Joined Husband for $1,000 Lynyrd Skynyrd Fundraiser

In 2011, Bono Mack joined her husband Connie Mack, in hosting a fundraiser at a Lynyrd Skynyrd concert. Tickets for the fundraiser cost $1,000 per ticket. [In the Loop blog, Al Kamen, Washington Post, 7/12/11]

20

Raised $190,000 in Second Quarter, Received Koch Industries Donation

In the second fundraising quarter of 2011 Bono Mack received  $2,500 from Koch Industries. She also received money from AT&T, Blue Cross and US Oncology, and her $1,500 political action committee donors included Honeywell International and Wal-Mart. Bono Mack raised nearly $190,000 in the second quarter, and had a total of $371,861 cash on hand. [North County Times, 7/18/11]

Gave $358,023 of Her Own Campaign Funds to Other Candidates

Bono Mack gave away $358,023 of her own campaign funds to other candidates and party committees between 2001 and 2010. She ranks 264th among her colleagues in sharing funds and 41st in the 53-member California delegation. [Visalia Times-Delta, 6/21/11]

Received PAC Contributions from Telecommunications and Owner of Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that during the first quarter Bono Mack got $4,000 from the National Automobile Dealers Association, $2,500 apiece from California Dairies, AT&T, the Edison Electric Institute, National Emergency Medicine, Surwest Communications, Verizon, Viacom International, Time Warner Cable and the National Association of Broadcasters.

Her largest individual contributors were two $2,500 checks — one for the primary and one for the general election — from Thomas J. Bombardier of Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America in Provincetown, Mass. She also received two $2,500 contributions from builder John Fowler, also of Provincetown; $1,500 from Indian Wells Councilman Bill Powers; and $1,500 from Bobby Lundstedt of Chino Hills. [Desert Sun, 5/5/11]

Received Donations from Forbes Lists Wealthiest Individuals

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that the Bono Mack Victory Fund had first quarter donations from the Forbes wealthiest individuals. Anne Windfohr Marion of Fort Worth, Texas, donated $10,000, Jerry Perenchio the former head of Univision and his wife, Margaret Perenchio, each gave $5,000. Michael S. Shannon of Milwaukee part of the private equity firm KSL Capital Partners gave $20,000 with his family and Greg Renker, part of Guthy-Renker Corp. and his wife, Stacey gave $20,000. [Desert Sun, 5/5/11]

Took $32,000 from Donor who was Fined $60,000 for Violating California Contribution Rules

In April 2011, the California Fair Political Practices Commission fined Larry Minor of San Jacinto $60,000 for violating state campaign contribution rules. The FPPC’s investigation found that Minor had a “money-laundering violation” that benefitted Riverside County Supervisor Jeff Stone’s state Senate campaign in 2009. Campaign records showed that Minor also gave $32,000 to Bono Mack since 2007. [Desert Sun, 4/18/11]

Over Just Three Months in 2011Bono Mack Spent Almost $46,000 on Several Fundraising Consultants:

21

Fundraising Consultant Date Amount Arthur J. Finkelstein & Associates, Inc 1/7/2011 $6,000.00Capital Campaigns, Inc 1/14/2011 $8,885.24Arthur J. Finkelstein & Associates, Inc 1/31/2011 $3,000.00Capital Campaigns, Inc. 2/15/2011 $5,000.00Janet Bain Company 2/18/2011 $2,000.00Epiphany Productions 3/14/2011 $10,000.00Capital Campaigns, Inc. 3/15/2011 $5,000.00Arthur J. Finkelstein & Associates, Inc 3/31/2011 $6,000.00Total   $45,885.24

[Mary Bono Mack Committee, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Received Several Thousand from Lobbyists

Bono Mack received $1,500 from Cliff Madison with the lobbying firm Cliff Madison Govt Relations. She also received $250 from Barney J. Skladany, Jr., a partner with the lobbying firm Akin Gump, et al., LLP and $750 from Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, LLP. [Mary Bono Mack Committee, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11; Open Secrets, accessed 4/18/11; Open Secrets, accessed 4/18/11]

CA-45: Mary Bono Mack Committee April Quarterly Report Analysis

Mary bono Mack Committee Campaign Account April Quarterly Report analysisTotal Raised: $ 133,282.44Raised from PACs: $46,750Cash on Hand: $242,887.33Debt: $0[Mary Bono Mack Committee, 2011 April Quarterly FEC Report, Filed 04/15/11]

Had Fundraiser with House Speaker John Boehner

On Saturday, March 26 House Speaker John Boehner attended a fundraiser for Bono Mack’s re-election. The event was $100-per-person event will be held at the Miramonte Resort & Spa in Indian Wells. [Desert Sun, 3/21/11]

Took Thousands in Donations from Businessman Who Pled Guilty to Funneling Campaign Contributions to Candidates

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Bono Mack (R-Calif.) got thousands in campaign donations from Larry Minor and his family.”

Larry Minor, a businessman and one of the nation’s largest potato growers, was indicted in a California court on charges of funneling $66,000 in campaign contributions to two candidates for state legislature.

22

Within 24 hours, he pled guilty to violating state contribution limits, he faced 14 counts, but agreed to two misdemeanor charges as a result of his plea deal. By taking the deal, he avoided jail and paid a $60,000 fine with three years of probation. [Washington Post, 2/24/11]

Pattern of Contributions from Minor and His Family to Bono Mack Raised Questions

Larry Minor, one of the nation’s largest potato growers, was indicted in a California court on charges of funneling $66,000 in campaign contributions to two candidates for state legislature. He pled guilty to two misdemeanor charges and contributed $32,000 to Mary Bono Mack in 2008 and 2010 election cycles.

Larry Minor’s 26-year-old daughter gave $2,500 to Bono Mack on June 3, 2008. Aimee Minor Balcanus, 26 was listed in the grand jury indictment as a conduit for her father’s illegal contributions. She testified that her father asked her to go to fundraisers, including one for Bono Mack and donate.

Cameron Minor, who is Larry Minor’s nephew, gave $2,500 to Bono Mack in May 2008. Before that contribution, he had not donated to a federal candidate since 1992. Preston Minor, another nephew, also gave $2,500 to Mack. It was his first contribution ever in Federal Election Commission records that date back to 1979.

A Republican election lawyer said the key question was whether Bono Mack received contributions from Minor’s family members in conjunction with Minor giving money to those family members. [Washington Post, 2/24/11]

Mack’s Chief of Staff said if there was Evidence of Wrongdoing in Relation to Federal Contributions She Would Return Money

Larry Minor, one of the nation’s largest potato growers, was indicted in a California court on charges of funneling $66,000 in campaign contributions to two candidates for state legislature. He pled guilty to two misdemeanor charges and contributed $32,000 to Mary Bono Mack in 2008 and 2010 election cycles.

Mack’s chief of staff, Frank Cullen, said, “If any evidence of wrongdoing is discovered in relation to federal contributions, Mary Bono Mack will return the funds or donate an equal amount to charity.” [Washington Post, 2/24/11]

Bono Mack Said Her Campaign Did Nothing Wrong in Taking Contributions from Donor Who Pled Guilty to Violating Campaign Finance Law

When one of Mack’s donors pled guilty to violating California state contribution limits, she said her staff tried to vet contributors, but called the situation a “sticky wicket.”

She went on to say, “It’s awful when these things happen. There’s absolutely no way that we can know — that candidates can know — that people are violating the law on their end.”

23

Her campaign staff did nothing wrong, Bono Mack said. [Desert Sun, 2/25/11]

Bono Mack Collected Contributions from Donor Who Pled Guilty to Violating Campaign Finance Law Around Time She Passed Bill with Donors Interests

Bono Mack received donations from Larry Minor and his family members around the time that she worked to pass a bill to settle water rights for the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians. Minor served on a board that supported the settlement.

Bono Mack’s staff denied any linkage between the contributions and the bill, saying, “I don’t know how it could benefit anybody. It was years and years in the making. I am really proud we were able to settle the dispute. It had the full support of the municipalities and the county supervisor for the area. There was no dissension from anybody that I can recall.” [Desert Sun, 2/25/11]

Bono Mack has History of Collecting Donations from People Who Violate Campaign Finance Law

Bono Mack received contributions from Upland car dealer, Mark Leggio in 2009 that exceeded limits on contributions to federal candidates.

Leggio was fined $6,000 by the Federal Election Commission and pled guilty in San Bernardino County to illegal contributions to state office candidates. [Desert Sun, 2/25/11]

Received Campaign Cash from Republican Party Leaders

In 2010, Bono Mack received $330,500 in political contributions from “single-issue and ideological” groups. Among groups supporting her was Freedom Project, House Speaker John Boehner: $10,000; Every Republican is Crucial, Majority Leader Eric Cantor: $10,000; Free and Strong America PAC, former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney: $2,500; Invest in a Strong and Secure America, Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Vista: $2,000; Continuing a Majority PAC, Rep. Dave Camp, R-Mich.: $10,000; Growth and Prosperity PAC, Rep. Spencer Bacchus, R-Ala.: $5,000; Majority Committee PAC, Rep. Kevin McCarthy, R-Bakersfield; $5,000; Future Leaders PAC, Rep. Jerry Lewis, R-Redlands: $10,000.

Commenting on the contributions Bono Mack said, “Throughout my life in public service, I have never been afraid to buck my own party’s leadership… If I feel they’re on the right side of an issue, I will vote with them. If I feel that they’re wrong, I will vote no. It’s that simple.” [Desert Sun, 2/17/11]

Headline: “Bono Mack’s Contributors Give a Lot, Get a Lot”; “It’s the Cost Of Doing Business”

In February 2011, it was uncovered that Bono Mack paid quarter-million dollars for political fundraising advice and gave luxurious gifts such as events at Aspen resorts, upscale golf courses and pricey restaurants in Los Angeles, Washington and New York.

Bono Mack’s chief of staff said, “It’s the cost of doing business.” [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

24

Spent Thousands at Resorts for Fundraisers Across the County, Including Florida

In February 2011, it was uncovered that Bono Mack spent thousands on fundraising events across the country, including several in Florida.

It was reported that she spent “$23,260 for events at Bighorn Golf Club near Palm Desert; $ In February 2011 it was uncovered that Bono Mack 16,108 for lodging and catering at St. Regis Resort in Aspen, Colo.; $5,935 for events at Classic Club golf course and Bellatrix restaurant in Palm Desert; and $4,469 at Miramonte Resort and Spa in Indian Wells.” [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

Spent Thousands on Gifts from Steak Houses and Capitol Hill Stores and Bel Promo in Miami

In February 2011, it was uncovered that Bono Mack spent thousands on expensive gifts that were from Capitol Hill and Florida.

It was reported that she “spent $14,005 in campaign mementos as prizes and gifts at fundraising events, including items from upscale clothing chain Vineyard Vines of Martha’s Vineyard, Mass., and from Nike, Costco, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Buy.Com, Reebok Outlet Stores, Bel Promo in Miami, Capitol Hill Art and Frame, Eric Redd’s Golf Event Co., Cookies By Design and the House Gift Shop on Capitol Hill.” [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

Spent Thousands On Dinner at Spago “Where The Stars Dine”

In February 2011, it was uncovered that Bono Mack spent thousands on a dinner at Spago in Beverly Hills, “where the stars dine.” [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

Spent Thousands On Fancy Meals In DC and LAIn February 2011 it was uncovered that Bono Mack spent thousands on “restaurant tabs, catering fees and other costs including $8,618 to Hyatt Grand Champions Resort in Indian Wells; $5,419 to Iconic Events Studio in Los Angeles; $4,776 to Bobby Van’s Steakhouse in Washington; $3,131 to Rancho Las Palmas in Rancho Mirage; and $2,360 to Clint Eastwood’s Hog’s Breath Inn in Palm Desert.” [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

Spent Hundreds of Thousands on Fundraising Consultants

In February 2011, it was uncovered that Bono Mack spent$262,867 to fundraising consultants between 2009 and 2010. [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

Over the Year Bono Mack Spent Millions on Campaigns – Including Fundraising Events

In 2009 and 2010, the Bono Mack Committee spent $117,604 on various meals, catering and restaurant tabs, $13,732 on in-kind catering, food and beverages and facility rentals; and $730 on floral arrangements.

In 2010 alone, she spent $2.61 million. [Gannett News Service, 2/24/11]

25

Children

Recalled Eating SpaghettiOs as a Child with No Ill Effect

In 2011, when talking about food choices to reduce unhealthy ingredients and increase healthier nutrients in foods marketed to children Bono Mack recalled eating SpaghettiOs as a child with no ill effect. “Republicans on the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a hearing in October, where they grilled the agency chiefs about restricting food choices. A lithe Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Palm Springs, recalled eating SpaghettiOs as a child with no ill effect. [San Francisco Chronicle, 12/12/11]

Choice

Voted Against Cutting Planned Parenthood, Then Voted for it

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted against an amendment to defund planned parenthood saying, “Breast cancer screenings, pelvic exams, Pap tests, HPV (cervical cancer) tests and scores of other vitally important health care services - services that save lives - would be unfairly impacted.”

The she voted for the entire spending bill including the cuts to planned parenthood. [Gannett News Service, 2/25/11]

Voted to Allow Doctors to Refuse to Perform Abortions Even If Pregnancy Threatened Life of Mother

In February 2011, Bon Mack voted for a bill that would prevent private insurers that offer abortion coverage from participating in the regional health insurance markets in the health care reform bill. However, the bill also allowed doctors at hospitals receiving federal funds to refuse to perform abortions even if a pregnancy threatens the life of the mother. [Gannett News Service, 2/25/11]

Voted to Allow Doctors in Hospitals Receiving Federal Funding to Refuse to Perform Abortions

As tea party took over Republican party Bono Mack expressed confidence that she was restoring fiscal sanity and following a more “sensible” approach to the environment and abortion.

Bono Mack rarely parted ways with the GOP; accept when she opposed defunding Planned Parenthood; however, she later voted for the final legislation which cut funding.

In March 2011, she also voted for a bill in committee that prevented private insurers from offering abortion coverage participating in the health care reform legislations regional health insurance markets. It also allowed doctors in hospitals receiving federal funding to refuse to perform abortions if the pregnancy threatened the life of the mother. Bono Mack claimed she was being consistent with the provision forbidding federal funding for abortions. [Gannett News Service, 2/25/11]

Criticized by NARAL for Voting to Cut Fund for Family-Planning

26

In March 2011, Bono Mack was criticized by NARAL Pro-Choice America for voting for the continuing resolution that cut family-planning funds. [Gannett News Service, 3/4/11]

Voted Against Federal Funding for Abortions

Bono Mack voted for the Protect Life Act (HR 358) in the House Energy and Commerce Committee to put a ban on the federal funding of abortions in the health reform law. The bill passed out of committee 33-19. [Vote, 2/15/11; Life News, 2/15/11]

Conservative

Received Highest Score Ever from Conservative Group for Voting Record in 2010

Bono Mack’s 2010 votes gave her the highest score she ever received from the American Conservative Union group. Bono Mack used to be considered a moderate Republican, but she said “What changes from year to year are the issues - not where I stand on them.”

Bono Mack defended her stance on government spending saying “That’s not to say local projects aren’t important. ... In the past, I have worked very hard to justify the value of local projects, such as the Palm Springs airport tower and the Eisenhower Medical Center. And I will continue to fight for a fair share of federal project and grants.” [Desert Sun, 2/17/11]

Crime & Public Safety Issues

Bipartisan Consumer Safety Legislation was Signed by the President

In 2011, Bono Mack’s bipartisan consumer safety legislation, H.R. 2175 was signed by the President. Bono Mack released the following statement on her website: “This important new law will not only help to protect American consumers, but it will also help to save countless American jobs by reducing regulations on U.S. businesses which do not make sense and do not benefit the public. This law strikes a careful balance. Among other things, it gives the Consumer Product Safety Commission the flexibility it needs to regulate based on ‘risk’ and not on arbitrary standards.” [KPSP, 8/15/11]

Was Urged to Oppose Building of Jail In Palm Springs

In February 2011, Mayor Poughnet of Palm Springs put pressure on Bono Mack to side with the city and not support the building of a 7,200-bed jail planned to be built at the “entrance of Coachella Valley.” Pouchnet worried that it would spoil the city’s image. The mayor reached out to Mack’s district director to get Bono Mack to side with the city and against the jail. [mydesert.com, 2/9/11]

Called Drug Intelligence Center a “Boondoggle”

In February 2011, Bono Mack introduced a bill that would shut down Johnstown’s National Drug Intelligence Center. She called the facility a “24-carat boondoggle” and “It should never have been

27

opened in the first place, and it has never – at any time in its sordid 20-year history – lived up to its promise or potential.” [The Tribune-Democrat, 2/10/11]

As Bono Mack was calling for the closing of Johnstown’s National Drug Intelligence Center (NDIC) in February 2011, she was called out for citing the center in a bill. In 2009, she cited the NDIC’s primary product, the National Drug Threat Assessment, in a bill to combat gang violence. [The Tribune-Democrat, 2/10/11]

Bono Mack proposed legislation in February 2011 to abolish the National Drug Intelligence Center. The center was used to gather drug information from around the area. She called the organization a “waste of taxpayer money and the poster child for government inefficiency.” [examiner.com, 2/9/11]

Drug Issues

Introduced Stop Oxy Abuse Act to Make Oxycodone Less Available

In 2011, Bono Mack introduced The Stop Oxy Abuse Act. The legislation proposed to restrict the use of any pain-relief drug containing oxycodone to “the relief of severe-only instead of moderate-to-severe pain.”

The issue of prescription pill abuse has always been personal for Bono Mack. Her son, Chesare, stole from family and friends in high school to feed an oxycodone habit he has since overcome. Bono Mack contends the drug has become too available. [Gannett News Service, 2/24/12]

Headline: Powerful prescription drugs too easy to get, Mary Bono Mack says

In 2012, Bono Mack called for greater scrutiny into how powerful pain pills are getting into the hands of young people and addicts. At a town hall event Bono Mack said “We do need to treat pain, there's no question about it. ... But the strength of these narcotics? Our children do not stand a chance” [Desert Sun, 4/4/12]

Doctor Concerned That Bono Mack was Determining Medical Decisions Through Legislation

In February 2012, Bono Mack’s Stop Oxy Abuse Act, which would restrict the use of any pain-relief drug containing oxycodone was called into question. The question was raised how Congress would define "severe" pain and who gets to make the call about when a patient feels severe pain or not?

The bill was criticized by Seddon Savage, a doctor and specialist on addiction issues at Dartmouth University in New Hampshire. "Pain is a subjective phenomenon," said Seddon Savage, a doctor and specialist on addiction issues at Dartmouth University in New Hampshire. "People experience pain differently." "It's not clear to me this should be the determination of a legislative committee," she said of what drugs patients should and shouldn't get, adding it should remain an FDA decision. [Desert Sun, 2/27/12]

Said FDA Would Make Decision on Painkillers; Bill Did Not Explicitly Direct FDA to Decide.

28

In February 2012, Bono Mack said the FDA would have to be the ultimate arbiter of what pain medication patients received. Bono Mack’s bill, however, did not explicitly direct the FDA to decide what counts as severe pain and how it might decide it.

“Through a very thorough, scientific process, the Food and Drug Administration would decide the indications for these drugs — what they can be used to treat and how they should be used,” spokesman Ken Johnson said. [Desert Sun, 2/27/12]

Spotlighted Prescription Drug Abuse, Supported Legislation to Curb “Epidemic”

In March 2012, Bono Mack discussed her support of legislation aimed at curbing what she called the “epidemic” of teenage prescription drug abuse. Bono Mack’s teenage son got hooked on OxyContin, and has been in recovery for years. The congresswoman has introduced legislation to train doctors about strong painkillers and limit their use.

“Some would argue that we’ve done such a good job of telling our kids to stay away from illicit drugs, that they’ve thought that prescription drugs were the safe alternative,” she said. “This is a very serious health problem that our children are faced with.” [KPCC, 3/19/12]

Introduced Stop Oxy Abuse Bill

In February 2012, Bono Mack’s efforts to reduce the abuse of addictive prescription drugs culmintaed in the Stop Oxy Abuse bill, which aimed to restrict the use of pain-relieving drugs containing oxycodeine, which is used in OxyContin.

Bono Mack’s co-sponsors include Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, a Massachusetts Democrat, and her husband, Rep. Connie Mack, a Florida Republican. [Desert Sun,,2/29/12]

Introduced the Ryan Creedon Act

In February 2012, Bono Mack introduced the Ryan Creedon Act, named for a Palm Desert resident who overdosed on OxyContin in 2009. The legislation would require more rigorous training of those who prescribe the drug as, according to Bono Mack, no national standard for training exists. The bill would limit the use of drugs that contain oxycodeine to severe-only pain instead of the current standard of moderate-to-severe pain.

Creedon’s mother, Kathy, testified that she found out her son was addicted at age 18 and enrolled him in a treatment program. [Desert Sun, 2/29/12]

Criticized Federal Regulators for Failing to Issue Recall on Mislabeled Painkillers

In 2012, Bono Mack accused federal regulators of being negligent for failing to take action against Novartis for did not issue a recall of mislabeled painkillers. The facility received 12 citations for quality-control problems and 166 complaints of mixed pills in bottles since 2009, Bono Mack said.

29

“I am outraged at the lack of leadership shown by FDA to guarantee the safety of patients across the country, and it perplexes me that inspectors continued citing problems with the facility without holding Novartis accountable,” Bono Mack wrote in a letter to FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg. “If FDA had taken a more proactive, consistent role in the ongoing inspections, the recall by Novartis could have been avoided and consumers would not be at risk of accidentally taking prescription painkillers in place of over-the-counter drugs such as Gas-X.” [The Hill, 1/17/12]

Republicans Advocated for Cutting FDA Funding

The Republican proposal cuts FDA funding by $241 million below 2010 and $400 million below the Administration’s 2011 budget request. This would lead to furloughs and/or RIFs of hundreds of FDA staff including those who inspect our domestic and imported foods. It would also lead to a sharp reduction in the number of samples of food and medical products coming into our country from overseas. [Norm Dicks’ Statement on Republican Budget, press release, 2/11/11]

Received Award from Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America

In February 2012, Bono Mack was one of four members of Congress honored for working to strengthen drug deterrence and treatment programs. Bono Mack received the Congressional Leadership Award from the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America at its National Leadership Forum.

The award recognized Bono Mack for championing “legislation and strategies to protect and enhance the federal role in substance abuse prevention, education, treatment and research,” the group said in a statement. [Desert Sun, 2/8/12]

Said She was “Honored” to Receive Award from Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America

In February 2012, Bono Mack, co-chair of the House of Representatives’ Youth Drug Prevention Caucus and Prescription Drug Abuse Caucus, said in a Twitter post that she was “honored” to receive the award.

“During one of the toughest funding climates Congress has seen in years, it’s reassuring to know that there are lawmakers that remain passionate and committed to preventing youth drug abuse,” said CADCA Chairman and CEO Gen. Arthur T. Dean. [Desert Sun, 2/8/12]

Planned Congressional Hearings on Prescription Drug Abuse In 2012, during an appearance on CNN’s “Starting Point,” Bono Mack, the co-chairwoman of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse, said she planned to hold a series of congressional hearings on prescription drug abuse and had a “number of items in the legislative form and some that are more conceptual, some are putting pressure on the DEA and FDA.”

“I have a prescriber education bill. I also have a bill that would limit access to OxyContin, which is one of the most powerful narcotics on the market,” she said. [CNN, 2/14/12]

30

Supported Passing Legislation to Limit Access to OxyContin, Increase Education Requirements for those Who Prescribe

In 2012, Bono Mack, whose son and late husband both struggled with addiction, was among those calling for stricter restrictions on pills like OxyContin, which she said were “too readily available.”

“Look, this epidemic is well beyond getting it out of some family member’s medicine cabinet,” Bono Mack said on CNN’s Starting Point. “There’s no doubt that there are holes in the supply chain. There’s no doubt that people are pharmacy and doctor shopping.” [Press-Enterprise, 2/14/12]

Requested Hearings on Prescription Drug Abuse

In 2012, it was reported Bono Mack, chairwoman of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse, along with other Representatives, asked the chairmen of the Judiciary Committee and the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security to request hearings to both inform Congress and help to move to address the growing epidemic of prescription drug abuse. [News and Sentinel.com, 2/3/12]

Made Case for Two Bills Aimed at Limiting Prescription Drug Addiction

In 2011, Bono Mack said her crusade against prescription drug abuse did not mean she wanted to denying such medicines to people such as late-stage cancer patients. She said all she wants is for the health care system — and doctors especially — to be more aware of the potentially deadly ramifications of prescribing painkillers that give users a high. The congresswoman’s son, Chesare, developed a dependence on OxyContin in high school.

Bono Mack introduced two pieces of legislation – one would direct the Food and Drug Administration to limit use of drugs containing oxycodone hychloride  and the other would require that those with authority to prescribe controlled substances go through a training or certification programs. [Desert Sun, 12/6/11]

Accused FDA of Failing to Do Job and Tighten Controls on Hydrocodone

In 2011, Bono Mack accused the FDA of failing to do their job and tighten controls on hydrocodone. Bono Mack said, “The FDA is about controlling dangerous drugs, and they’re just not doing their job here.” The Associated Press reported that drug was “the nation’s second-most abused medicine, linked to murders, celebrity overdoses and a rising tide of violent pharmacy robberies. But since 1999 federal regulators have put off deciding whether to tighten controls over hydrocodone, the addictive narcotic that is the key ingredient in Vicodin and other medicines.” [Associated Press, 8/21/11]

Planned to Get Involved In the Narco-Trafficking Issue after Tour of U.S-Mexican Border

In May 2011, Bono Mack said that she would seek to use her position as chair of the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade Congressional committee to combat international narcotics trafficking after a tour along the U.S.-Mexican border. Bono Mack said, “I plan to get more involved in the narco-trafficking issue….[w]hen you see it- and you see how close it is to our border- it is impossible not to recognize Congress should focus on this.”

31

Bono Mack was among more than half a dozen lawmakers on the trip. They made stops in Panama, Colombia and Mexico. Talks with the presidents of each of those countries during the trip turned to the issue of narcotics trafficking and the powerful drug cartels who control it. [Press Enterprise, 5/23/11]

Said Increase in Heroin Trafficking From Latin America to the United States Could be Connected to the Explosion of Prescription Drug Abuse

In May 2011, Bono Mack said that she would seek to use her position atop a congressional panel to combat international narcotics trafficking after a congressional delegation tour where she saw links between narcotics trafficking, prescription drug abuse and her work heading the House Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade.

Bono Mack said an increase in heroin trafficking from Latin America to the United States could be connected to the explosion of prescription drug abuse. She also stated that people who become addicted to painkilling opiates often move to less expensive heroin. Bono Mack served as co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse and has talked publicly about her son’s struggles with addiction. [Press Enterprise, 5/23/11]

Introduced Legislation for to Regulate Pain Pills

In 2011, Bono Mack introduced the Ryan Creedon Act of 2011 that required prescribers of prescription pain killers to go through federally approved training on the dangers of drug abuse.

Bono Mack said as a condition of approving or renewing the authority of certain health providers to dispense those pain killers, they had to undergo a training session that met standards implemented by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General. The bill was expected to cost $4 million a year. [Desert Sun, 6/9/11]

Had Emotional Testimony on Pill Mills and Dangers of OxyContin Addiction

In 2011, Bono Mack held a congressional hearing on prescription drugs before the Energy and Commerce subcommittee. She said “Can we dig our heads out of the sand and stop acting like it’s all in Grandma’s medicine chest?” Bono Mack discussed pill mills and said OxyContin amounted to synthetic heroin. She had victims of OxyContin addiction and the parents of children that had lost their life through the drug testify. “Congress needs to make it much more difficult for these rogue clinics to operate, and we should treat offenders like any other street deal,” she said. [Desert Sun, 4/14/11]

Held Hearings on OxyContin and Introduced Legislation to Curb Addiction

As chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee in April 2011, Mary Bono Mack focused on prescription drug addiction. She held hearings with witnesses to discuss OxyContin and other legal opiates, the problem affected her family when her son Chesare became addicted to OxyContin as a teenager.

32

“The reason both (Chesare) and I wanted to start talking publicly was my son started watching more and more of his friends get hooked on prescription pills, and that’s when he really realized this is an epidemic,” she said. “The two of us did.” [The Hill, 4/13/11]

Introduced the Stop Oxy Abuse Act of 2011In April 2011, Bono Mack introduced The Stop Oxy Abuse Act of 2011 (H.R. 1316) to revise U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifications to ensure that these drugs are prescribed only for their intended use. The press release said Bono Mack introduced the legislation to stop the rising abuse and addiction of prescription drugs containing controlled-release oxycodone hydrochloride. [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 4/4/11]

Economic and Financial Issues

Called for More Oversight of Laws and Agencies

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack called for “vigorous oversight of new laws and agencies.” She said, “Oversight hearings, which my subcommittee will be holding this year, are a unique opportunity to see what’s working and what’s not.” She also said, “Aggressive oversight doesn’t have to be a political parlor game.” [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Daily Caller, 6/23/11]

Raised Millions through Resort Fundraisers and Upscale Dinners

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack’s seat cost her four times more than a decade ago to keep. In 2010 Bono Mack raised $2.42 million for her main campaign committee and an additional $122,000 for a separate committee. The Desert Sun reported that “Bono Mack used Aspen resorts, a variety of world-class golf courses and high-end restaurants in Los Angeles, Washington and New York for her 2009-2010 fundraising, Federal Election Commission records show. Particulars included: $23,260 for events at Bighorn Golf Club near Palm Desert; $16,108 for lodging and catering at the St. Regis Resort in Aspen, plus $416 for ski tickets; $5,935 for events at Classic Club golf course and Bellatrix restaurant in Palm Desert; and $4,469 at Miramonte Resort and Spa in Indian Wells.”

The Desert Sun also reported that Bono Mack also spent “$14,005 for campaign mementos given away as prizes and gifts at fundraising events, including items from the upscale clothing chain Vineyard Vines of Martha’s Vineyard, Mass., and from Nike, Costco, Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Buy.com, Reebok Outlet Stores, Bel Promo in Miami, Capitol Hill Art and Frame and the House Gift Shop on Capitol Hill. Meals for contributors costing almost $3,000 per event at Spago in Beverly Hills, and at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse in Palm Desert…East Coast events that cost $4,776 at Bobby Van’s Steakhouse in Washington; and $1,850 at the Palm Restaurant and $1,675 at the Yale Club, both in New York.” [Desert Sun, 4/11/11]

Education Issues

District Had Low High School Graduation Rate and Income Compared to Rest of California

33

An analysis of Bono Mack’s 45th district by the American Human Development Project in 2011 found that “Nearly one in four, or 22 percent, do not have a high school education. In California, the number without a high school diploma was 19.8 percent.” Life expectancy was lower in her district, 79 than in California as a whole, 80. “The median household income in 2009 was $26,853; across the state it was $31,007.”

“We are still reviewing the report, but clearly there are a lot of troubling warning signs,” said Ken Johnson, a Bono Mack spokesman. “Congresswoman Bono Mack is most concerned by the large number of people who are not graduating from high school, as well as the underlying health reasons, such as obesity and diabetes, which are contributing to lower life expectancies.“But the congresswoman also believes the report can help to bring community leaders together to find ways to make a great place to live even better.” [Desert Sun, 5/18/11]

Voted to Cut Programs that Helped 140,000 California Students and Provided Legal Service to Help Veterans Obtain Benefits

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted for the continuing resolution House spending bull that cut more than $100 million from groups that helped some of California’s neediest. The programs on the chopping block included programs that helped families by building affordable homes, mentoring kids, caring for the elderly and providing assistance in under-resourced schools. The LA Times reported “Federal cuts in national service programs could be costly in California.”

House Republicans worked to eliminate AmeriCorps and other national service program who worked for Habitat for Humanity, provided free legal help to veterans struggling to obtain disability benefits. In February 2011, the House approved $1.15 billion in cuts for the Corp. for National and Community Service, effectively shutting down the federal agency that operates AmeriCorps. Other programs that would be eliminated included Senior Corps, which engaged 55 and older in community service and Learn and Serve America, which worked with 140,000 California students.

In a statement Bono Mack said “It’s simply irresponsible to keep borrowing money for programs that we can no longer afford as a nation — no matter how well intentioned.” [LA Times, 4/3/11]

Energy Issues

Bono Mack Touted Solar Trust Loan Guarantee – Company Went Bankrupt

In 2012, it was reported that Solar Trust received a conditional commitment for $2.1 billion in loan guarantees from the Department of Energy before it declared bankruptcy. Bono Mack said “This is a huge milestone for our community,” when the company received a loan guarantee. “I look forward to continuing my work supporting projects . . . that will harness our local energy resources and help reduce our nation’s dangerous dependence on unstable foreign oil.” [Washington Examiner, accessed 4/25/12]

“Leaving Her Options Open” on Reauthorizing Solar Incentives

34

At the end of 2011 an incentive, allowing consumers and businesses to take a cash grant instead of the standard 30 percent federal income tax credit allowed for solar and other renewable energy projects sunset. The provision was passed as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, “the 1603 program has been a major driver for investment in renewable energy and for job creation, advocates say, because it has helped keep down borrowing costs.” The program was a major component of the financing for BrightSource’s 392-megawatt Ivanpah solar project in San Bernardino.

Rep. Mary Bono Mack was “leaving her options open.” Her spokesman said, “Any favorable tax treatment, regardless of whether it’s for the oil and gas industry or the solar and wind industry, is now on the table for a closer examination because of year-after-year budget deficits. Difficult times require difficult choices.” [Desert Sun, 12/27/11]

Criticized Obama for Rejecting Application to Build Transcontinental Keystone XL Pipeline

In 2012, Bono Mack joined Republicans in criticizing the Obama Administration for rejecting application to build the transcontinental Keystone XL Pipeline that would transport oil from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. “This is a serious blow to our fragile economy and a thumb in the eye to American workers,” Bono Mack said in a statement. “This much-needed project would create tens of thousands of new jobs and help to reduce our nation’s dangerous dependence on foreign oil. “The President needs to rethink this decision before it’s too late, because it will only lead to higher unemployment and higher gasoline prices in the future,” Bono Mack said. “This is not the kind of energy plan Americans want or deserve.” [Banning-Beaumont Patch, 1/19/12]

Did Not Want Loan Guarantee Programs - First Solar and Solar Trust in Riverside County Got Loans

In 2011, Bono Mack did not want any new loan guarantee programs for solar energy projects. Bono Mack said that despite the fact that she supported green technology previously, she would not support them in the future. In Riverside County a 550-megawatt power plant by First Solar of Tempe, Ariz., was aided by a $1.46 billion loan guarantee; and a 1,000-megawatt project in Blythe by Solar Trust of Oakland received a $2.1 billion guarantee – Solar Trust did not end up using the guarantee. At least two other solar projects are in the planning stages for the region. [Desert Sun, 10/10/11]

Previously Wrote Letter Pushing for Review of Loan Guarantees for First Solar and Solar Trust

In September 2011, it was reported that before Republicans including Bono Mack criticized Solyndra, she pushed for expedited reviews of federal loan guarantee applications for solar projects in her district. In a letter in September 2010, Bono Mack asked the administration to review applications filed by Solar Millennium and First Solar for loan guarantees.

In the letter, she highlighted Solar Millennium, now known as Solar Trust of America, which recently decided against using a $2.1 billion loan guarantee for a 7,000-acre project near Blythe. She also pointed to First Solar’s 550-megawatt project near Desert Center, which received a conditional commitment for a loan guarantee of $1.88 billion. [Press-Enterprise, 9/29/11]

Previously Signed on to Letter Requesting Federal Funding for Green Energy Project

35

On October 14, 2009, a letter was sent to the Secretary of Energy signed by Bono Mack advocating for the “Consortium for Algal Biofuels Commercialization’s (CAB-Comm) proposal to DOE under the above-referenced FOA to establish a world-leading effort to develop sustainable energy solutions based on algae biofuels.” The letter went on to state, “We are pleased to support this proposal by CAB-Comm and look forward to the results of this merit-reviewed DOE Recovery Act competition.” [Letter to Secretary of Energy, 10/14/09]

Headline: Bono Mack sought expedited reviews of solar projects

In September 2011, it was reported that before Republicans including Bono Mack criticized Solyndra, she pushed for expedited reviews of federal loan guarantee applications for solar projects in her district. In a letter in September 2010, Bono Mack asked the administration to review applications filed by Solar Millennium and First Solar for loan guarantees. [Press-Enterprise, 9/29/11]

Republicans Hypocritically Attacked on Solyndra Project When They Requested Loans for Green Jobs

In 2011, Republicans hypocritically attacked the President for loan guarantees from the stimulus bill to create green jobs, when they requested loans under such a program. [Huffington Post, 9/21/11]

Bono Mack Signed on to Letter Requesting Funds from DOE Recovery Act Competition

On October 14, 2009 a letter was sent to the Secretary of Energy signed by Bono Mack advocating for the “Consortium for Algal Biofuels Commercialization’s (CAB-Comm) proposal to DOE under the above-referenced FOA to establish a world-leading effort to develop sustainable energy solutions based on algae biofuels.” The letter went on to state “We are pleased to support this proposal by CAB-Comm and look forward to the results of this merit-reviewed DOE Recovery Act competition.” [Letter to Secretary of Energy, 10/14/09]

Criticized Solyndra Project in Facebook Post

In Tuesday, September 20, 2011 facebook post Bono Mack criticized the Solyndra project. “Americans have a right to know how $500 million in taxpayer money was squandered by Solydra. It’s time to “fess up.” [Rep. Bono Mack, Facebook, 9/20/11]

Criticized Solyndra Project in Twitter Post

In 2011, Bono Mack tweeted “#Solyndra execs won’t testify before@housecommerce O&I Subcommittee about failed company. What are they hiding? Who are they protecting?” [Rep. Bono Mack, Twitter, 9/20/11]

Flip Flipped on Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

In 2011, Bono Mack voted to repeal light bulb efficiency standards, after she voted for the efficiency standards in 2007.

36

A Bono Mack spokesperson said, “Congresswoman Bono Mack has serious concerns about how the new efficiency standards will affect American consumers and businesses, who are struggling to make ends meet.”

He went on to say, “The Congresswoman does not believe we should be imposing any new costs on consumers or businesses during these tough times.” [Gannett Washington Bureau, 7/18/11]

Non-Committal on Supporting Renewable Energy Programs that Created 200 Jobs

In 2011, Bono Mack joined state and local officials and celebrated the progress of the Solar Trust of America, Blythe plant a massive solar project. However, she remained a critic of the $787 billion stimulus act that provided a $2.1 billion Department of Energy loan guarantee, critical for the plan to receive private financing. Ground was broken in June, 2011 and the project was expected to employ more than 1,000 in construction and more than 200 workers permanently. Republicans sought to end the loan guarantees and grants for renewable energy industries.

Bono Mack hypocritically celebrated the Blythe plant and other solar projects, but voted against the stimulus act that helped make the project possible. Bono Mack’s spokesperson was non-committal on weather Bono Mack would not support continuing the renewable energy loan guarantees or Treasury grants. [Desert Sun, 7/4/11]

Applauded Blythe Solar Power Project and 295 Permanent Jobs it Would Create

In a 2010 press release, Rep. Bono Mack applauded the Solar Millennium, LLC, energy project called the Blythe Solar Power Project. In her press release she touted the fact that the project was the largest solar energy project ever to be built on public lands. She said, “The installation of the Blythe Solar Power is a great milestone for our community.   At its peak, this project will produce 1,000 mega-watts of much-needed energy and provide power to approximately 300,000 single-family homes and also create an estimated 1,066 construction jobs and 295 permanent jobs.”

She went on to say, “I am proud Riverside County is now home to Solar Millennium and what will soon be the largest solar energy project on public lands. I look forward to continuing my work supporting this and other projects in Riverside County that will harness our local energy resources and help reduce our dependence on foreign oil.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 10/25/10]

Called for More Domestic Energy Production

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack called for an “all-of-the-above” approach to domestic energy alternatives. She said focusing on “American-produced oil, natural gas, coal and nuclear, along with alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, hydropower and geothermal” would improve national security, reduce dependence on foreign oil, and create jobs. [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Daily Caller, 6/23/11]

Touted Heckmann Corp. Roll Out of Fleet of Transport Trucks Powered by Liquefied Natural Gas

In 2011, Heckmann Corp. announced their plan to roll out the largest fleet of transport trucks powered by liquefied natural gas in the nation. Bono Mack said “This will be a shot in the arm to the U.S. economy…

37

Hopefully this will mark the beginning of (a) new era in the transport trucking industry.” [Desert Sun News, 4/5/11]

Backed $900 Million in Cuts to Renewable-Energy

Bono Mack supported $100 billion in federal spending immediately. The plan she backed included $900 million in cuts in renewable-energy and energy-efficiency programs. Riverside County supported the provision in the President’s budget that ramped up spending on clean-energy technologies by 70 percent, including a $457 million increase in solar programs. [Desert Sun, 2/15/11]

Said Renewables had great potential, but federal assistance must be fiscally responsible

Bono Mack said of renewables and the budget: “Renewable energy continues to offer great potential — not only for Riverside County, but for the entire state of California as well. Given the continuing challenges facing the U.S. economy, it’s absolutely imperative that we take a long hard look at America’s energy policy and inventory what’s working today and what’s not.

“Any federal assistance must prove to be part of a responsible fiscal policy, while also helping to reduce our nation’s dangerous dependence on foreign oil and enhance domestic energy production.” [Desert Sun, 2/15/11]

Backed $900 Million Reduction in Renewable-Energy and Energy-Efficiency Programs

Bono Mack backed a plan to cut $100 billion in federal spending in February 2011. The cuts included a $900 million reduction in renewable-energy and energy-efficiency programs. She said, “What part of ‘we’re going broke’ doesn’t the White House understand?”

Bono Mack said, “Renewable energy continues to offer great potential - not only for Riverside County, but for the entire state of California as well. Given the continuing challenges facing the U.S. economy, it’s absolutely imperative that we take a long hard look at America’s energy policy and inventory what’s working today and what’s not.” [Desert Sun, 2/15/11]

Advocated for Faster Permitting for Oil Drilling in Gulf; Took Over $100,000 from Oil and Gas Industry

In March 2011, Bono Mack advocated for faster permitting from the Obama to allow oil-drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico. She signed on to a letter discussing the “urgency to put our country on a path toward energy independence.” Environmentalists disagreed with Bono Mack. She received $112,400 in campaign contributions from employees of oil and gas companies and related political action committees according to open secrets since 1998.

Bono Mack’s spokesman said “Given America’s dangerous dependence on foreign oil — and the threat it poses to our economy, national security and future prosperity — the congresswoman believes that it’s more important than ever to keep all of our options open as a nation.”

38

“Right now, it makes most sense to maximize our potential in areas where drilling is already allowed. Currently, the Gulf of Mexico accounts for 13 percent of U.S. energy production, but it has vast reserves of untapped oil and natural gas. That’s where we should be focusing our attention.” [Desert Sun, 3/8/11]

Did Not Sign Delegation Letter on Offshore Drilling

In September 2008, Bono Mack joined Rep. Brian Bilbray in declining to sign a letter by the other seventeen California Republicans urging Speaker Nancy Pelosi to allow drilling off the California shore.

The letter was sent as House Democrats assemble an energy package that would allow offshore drilling if states opt in.

The lawmakers, led by Ken Calvert of Corona, focus on revenue drilling could generate for the state if California opts in and if states are given a cut of the royalties something the Democrats’ package doesn’t currently envision. [Associated Press, 9/11/08]

Praised Renewable Energy Credits, but Supported Opening Offshore Drilling

Bono Mack said it was important that any new energy policy includes revenue sharing. While many Californians are leery of offshore drilling, she said, they have to “realize we’ve come a long way from the oil spills of the late 1960s.”

The bill renewed tax credits for solar, wind and other renewable power producers, an important issue to the Coachella Valley and California. But Bono Mack said that was not enough to win her vote. “Although it’s a nice sweetener ... there is just not enough in this bill,” she said. “It doesn’t make the bad bill good.”

She said the bill also failed to address nuclear power and encourages ethanol use, which she called a “terrible solution.”

“(It) makes no sense to pay more for fuel” that’s less efficient, Bono Mack said. [Palm Springs Desert Sun, 9/19/08]

Opposed Ending Tax Breaks for Petroleum Industry

In January 2011, the Gannett News Service reported that Bono Mack opposed President Obama’s proposal to end tax breaks for the petroleum industry. She said “I’m totally against anything that would raise the price at the pump.” [Gannett News Service, 1/25/11]

Environmental Issues

Criticized Plan to Spent $53 Million on Green Parkway

In 2012, Bono Mack questioned whether a green parkway along the Whitewater River wash was the best investment of $53 million in air quality funds. She said it was “a stretch” to think it would offset the environmental impacts of a power plant being built near Desert Hot Springs.

39

“The idea of a bike path is a great idea. But to spend $1 million per mile on a bike path doesn’t make sense,” Bono Mack said. [Desert Sun, 3/29/12]

Backed Bill to Grant Amnesty, Reduce Fines for Illegally Sourced Paper and Wood Products

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack introduced legislation that would grant amnesty for illegally sourced pulp and paper, as well as reduce fines to $250, regardless of the size of the infraction, for obtaining illegally logged wood products. [Monga Bay, 11/7/11]

Columnist: Bono Mack Voted Against Environment When Foul Odors Filled Air and Arsenic was Present in Water

In 2011, Eduardo Guevera, a community activist wrote that Bono Mack voted against environmental protections when dust and foul odors filled the air and arsenic was present in water in the east valley. He wrote “Over and over, our representative has voted to cut funding for the Environmental Protection Agency, 85 percent of the time this year.” [Column, Eduardo Guevera, Desert Sun, 10/10/11]

Supported a Republican Plan to Reduce Funding for the Environmental Protection Agency While Demanding that the Agency Fix Air Problem Making Residents Sick

In June 2011, Mack’s the nonprofit group Pueblo Unido called on her to protect the Environmental Protection agency from budget cuts in light of chronic odor issues in Mecca. She was criticized by the group for calling for EPA budget cuts, while directing the agency to figure out the source of the odor that sickened Mecca-area residents. The Desert Sun reported “Bono Mack supported a Republican plan to reduce federal spending by nearly $6 trillion over the next decade, including deep cuts to the EPA.”

Bono Mack joined other state and federal lawmakers to bring attention to the Mecca environmental issue by sending a letter to the EPA in January 2011. District director Marc Troast said Bono Mack is committed to addressing the odor issue but believes that the federal government must see “cuts across the board” to solve the budget deficit. [Desert Sun, 6/02/11]

Expressed Concern Over Students Getting Sick from Oder; EPA Intervened

In 2011, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency took steps to halt waste shipments to the soil-recycling plant that the agency and residents believed was causing an odor that sickened Mecca residents. Paramedics had to go to Saul Martinez Elementary School to treat sickened students and teachers at least three times. State air quality officials have received more than 200 complaints. Rep. Mary Bono Mack sent a letter to the EPA in January, expressing concern for Saul Martinez students and calling for help to solve the problem. [Desert Sun, 5/10/11]

Introduced Legislation in 2000 to Get Monument Status for San Jacinto Mountains National Monument

In 2000, Bono Mack partnered with Senator Feinstein to get the San Jacinto Mountains National Monument a national monument designation. Bono Mack said

40

“People recognize this is a very special place…We are preserving spectacular landscape and diverse recreational resources for future generations to enjoy.” [Chicago Tribune, 3/20/11]

Polls Showed District Wanted Green House Gas Regulations

In February 2011, the Natural Resources Defense Council released several polls of Bono Mack’s district showing their intense support of the EPA. Fifty-nine percent of her constituents said, “to let the EPA do its job.” Bono Mack was supporting a bill to block the EPA from regulating greenhouse gases at that time. [mydesert.com, 2/11/11]

Voted Inconsistently on Greenhouse Gas Regulation

In February 2011, Bono Mack spoke about her support of a bill that would block the EPA from regulating greenhouse gases. However, in 2009, she was one of only 8 Republicans to vote in favor of cap and trade regulations on carbon-emitting industries. [mydesert.com, 2/10/11]

Pledged to Support a Bill That Blocked EPA From Regulating Greenhouse Gases

In February 2011, Bono Mack pledged to support a bill that would hinder the EPA’s ability to regulate greenhouse gases. [mydesert.com, 2/11/11]

Accused of Flip Flopping on Regulating Carbon

In March 2011, Bono Mack made it clear she supported blocking the EPA from regulating carbon. Environmentalists accused her of flip-flopping.

Senator Boxer said, “The congresswoman who represents our area is out of step with public opinion when she opposes EPA’s efforts to protect the public from air pollution. She also has the facts wrong when she claims that, ‘EPA made a unilateral decision recently to regulate greenhouse gases.’ The fact is that EPA is following what the latest scientific research tells us about the threat posed by air pollution, including carbon pollution, as required by law.” [Gannett News Service, 2/25/11]

Flip-Flop: Advocated to Block Efforts to Regulate Greenhouse Gases

Bono Mack said she would block the Obama administration’s efforts to regulate greenhouse gases, despite voting for the cap-and-trade bill in 2009.

Her change of heart was described by her office as “long-standing concerns regarding the role of the EPA and the overly burdensome California standards.” [Politico.com, 2/3/11]

Ethics Issues

Father-in-Law Was a Former Lobbyist

In March 2012, a political watchdog group called Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington issued a report that pointed out that Bono Mack’s father-in-law was a lobbyist.

41

The group determined that many lawmakers have paid family through their congressional offices, used campaign accounts to donate to relatives’ campaigns or are related to Washington lobbyists. The report noted Bono Mack has a father-in-law who was a lobbyist. [The Press-Enterprise, 3/23/12]

Hired PhRMA Former Chief Spokesman as a Senior Adviser

Bono Mack hired Ken Johnson, a former chief spokesperson for PhRMA, to act as a senior policy and communications adviser.

Johnson formally worked for Republican Rep. Billy Tauzin when he headed the Energy and Commerce Committee. Johnson followed Tauzin to PhRMA when he left Congress, and reported as making $500,000 in 2009. [Politico, 1/20/11]

Father In Law was Lobbyist and Advised Company with Array of Health Care Clients

According to a Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Congress report, Bono Mack’s father-in-law was a lobbyist. Former Senator Mack was a lobbyist from 2002 through 2009 and is currently a senior policy advisor with The Liberty Partners Group, which lists an array of health-care companies as clients.

Former Senator Mack lobbied first for Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, then King & Spalding LLP, and finally for Liberty Partners Group. His lobbying clients spanned a wide range of companies, including Bank of America and Google. [Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Congress, Family Affair Report, 2012]

Claimed Broker Made all Stock Trades to Avoid Conflict of Interest

In 2012, Bono Mack’s spokesperson claimed she avoided conflicts on the House by having her investment decisions made exclusively by brokers at Merrill Lynch. “The congressman can ask what’s in her portfolio, but she does not advise on what stocks are bought and sold,” her spokesperson said.

Bono Mack had 192 stock transactions in 2010, the second highest total among the 53-member California delegation. However, she did not become wealthier in Congress. According to the center, her net worth went from a range of $1.26 million to $4.6million in 2004 to a range of minus-$4,928 to $1.7 million in 2010. [Desert Sun, 4/1/12]

Headline: Side Jobs Bolster Some Lawmakers’ Paychecks

In 2011, the Wall Street Journal reported that Bono Mack made between $100,001 and $1 million from her former husband Sonny Bono’s music royalties. [Wall Street Journal, 9/19/11]

As Chair of Subcommittee on the Energy and Commerce Committee Bono Mack Held a Number of Energy and Tech. Stocks

In June 2011, Bono Mack’s financial disclosure showed that she held a number of technology and energy holdings as the chair of the subcommittee on the Energy and Commerce Committee. Her technology holdings included investments in Google, Apple, Microsoft, Oracle and Cisco Systems. Her energy

42

holdings included investments in ConocoPhillips, Schlumberger, Transocean, First Solar Inc. and Exxon Mobil. She said an independent investment broker who had authority to buy and sell assets without consulting her managed her holding. [Desert Sun, 6/18/11]

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Mack backs TV deal that favors big donor”

In January 2011, Rep. Mary Bono Mack signed a letter to the Federal Communications Commission urging them to approve the merger between NBC Universal with Comcast Corp., who gave her $26,750 during her 2010 election. The FCC approved the merger.

Craig Holman of Public Citizen, an advocacy and research organization said it raised questions of ethics and the appearance of quid pro quo. [Desert Sun, 1/26/11]

Bono Mack’s spokesperson said contributions did not influence her and she had the best interests of her district at heart. As a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, she was one of 104 House members to sign the Jan. 5 communication to Julius Genachowski, the FCC chairman. [Desert Sun, 1/26/11]

Hired PhRMA Spokesman as Advisor

As of January 2011, Bono Mack hired former PhRMA chief spokesman, Ken Johnson, as a senior policy and communications adviser.

Johnson formerly worked for Rep. Billy Tauzin when he was chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee. In his capacity as PhRMA’s chief spokesperson, Johnson backed Democratic health care reform that Bono Mack voted to repeal. [Politico, 1/20/11]

Bono-Mack Sponsored New House Transparency Rules

At the beginning of the 112th Congress, Bono-Mack proposed new rules that would require that all committees and sub-committees webcast markup hearing sessions. They would also require committees to post certain information -- including hearing attendance, amendments and roll call votes -- online, along with the full text of legislation being considered. The rules passed. [Press Enterprise, 1/09/11]

Foreign Policy Issues – Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea

Advocated for Trade Agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama

In her six-step plan for economic recovery, Bono Mack advocated for opening up foreign markets and moving trade deals with South Korea, Colombia and Panama forward. She wrote, “We need to open more foreign markets to U.S. products. We simply can’t sit on the sidelines while other nations sign free trade agreements and gain a foothold in promising new markets. Long-stalled trade promotion agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama should move forward quickly. Years of lost opportunities have only resulted in thousands of lost jobs. It’s time to quit playing politics with our trade policies.” [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Daily Caller, 6/23/11]

43

Said President Should Seek Congressional Authorization for Continued Action in Libya

Bono Mack said the president should seek congressional authorization for continued US military action in Libya.

She said, “The president has a moral obligation — as well as a constitutional one — to seek congressional approval before putting American lives in harm’s way. No matter how the White House attempts to explain our role in Libya, this is a war by any definition. The War Powers Act clearly prohibits this type of military action without congressional authorization.” [Desert Sun, 6/23/11]

Said President Should Follow Advice of Generals in Afghanistan

Bono Mack said the president should follow the advice of his generals on making decisions about Afghanistan.

She said, “While all Americans want the war in Afghanistan to be over soon, I would trust the advice of General (David) Petraeus and other senior military leaders as to how many troops should come home and how soon…In the final analysis, the president should avoid taking the political path of least resistance and lean heavily on the expert opinions of his military advisers.” [Desert Sun, 6/23/11]

Said No Government Should Regulate Free Speech After Mubarak’s Resignation

After Mubarak’s resignation in February 2011, Bono Mack released a statement saying, “The Egyptian revolution sends a loud, clear signal around the world: no government or international body should have the ability to regulate free speech on the Internet or to pull the plug on it.” [Official Press Release, Mary Bono Mack, 2/11/11]

Expressed Concern About Extremism in Egypt After Mubarak Resignation

In a February 2011 press release after Mubarak’s resignation, Bono Mack stated, “As Americans, we pray for a peaceful transition and a prosperous future for all Egyptians.   But we also hope that this rush to reform does not shut out dissident voices and allow extremists to seize power.” [Official Press Release, Mary Bono Mack, 2/11/11]

Gay and Lesbian Issues

Voted Against an Amendment to Reaffirm the Defense of Marriage Act in Defense Spending Bill

In 2011, Bono Mack voted against an amendment that would reaffirm the Defense of Marriage Act. The amendment would prohibit the use of Pentagon funds in contravention to the Defense of Marriage Act, which would prohibit the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages. [Washington Blade, 7/7/11]

Government Issues

44

Said She Would Address Obama’s Proposal for Streamlining the Federal Government

In 2012, Bono Mack said as the chair of the House Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, she would address Obama’s proposal for streamlining the federal government. “It’s interesting, the feedback I’ve been getting from either Facebook or Twitter or old-fashioned email,” Bono Mack said. “People like the proposal, but they’re also concerned that the president is consolidating power. I’d like to have hearings looking into the consolidation of agencies.” Bono Mack said she wants to “explore what the president has in mind and nudge him toward an agenda that is more pro-entrepreneur, pro-business and pro-freedom rather than just consolidation of power.” [Desert Sun, 1/25/12]

Gun Issues

Said America Didn’t Need “Knee-Jerk” Gun-Control Legislation in Response to Tucson Shootings

In January 2011, Bono Mack said that America did not need “knee-jerk” gun-control legislation in response to the Tucson shootings involving Congresswoman Giffords.

“Most importantly, we need to better understand how people like Jared Loughner slip through the cracks,” Bono Mack said. “Clearly, he is a deeply troubled man and all of the warning signs apparently were missed or ignored. Trampling on the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens won't solve that problem. We need to avoid knee-jerk reactions during times of crisis.” [Desert Sun, 1/16/11]

Health Care Issues

Said She Believed Much of Health Care Reform Could be “Rolled Back,” Would Turn Economy Around

In 2011, it was reported that, while speaking at the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast meeting, Bono Mack said she believed much of health care reform could be “rolled back” if Republicans were to control the federal branch after the elections in 2012. Bono Mack also said she thought this would help to turn the economy around.

Bono Mack said, “This is a perfect example of the government creating disincentives. If you have 49 employees you’re exempt, if you have 50 employees, you aren’t. It’s ridiculous.” [Desert Sun, 11/9/11]

Criticized for Announcing Support to Fight Abuse of Prescription Drugs and Voting to Cut Substance Abuse Funding

In 2011, Bono Mack was called a hypocrite after she announced her support for curbing prescription drug abuse and voted for a spending bill that cut $96 million used to fund the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services program.

“Representative Mary Bono Mack’s talk about the problem of substance abuse in America is hollow because she actually chose to reduce help to Americans suffering with addictions and looking for

45

recovery,” Jesse Ferguson, spokesman for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, said in a statement. [Gannett News Service, 3/4/11]

Signed on to Legislation to Combat Pill Mills

In March 2011, Bono Mack co-sponsored the “The Pill Mill Crackdown Act of 2011.” She was a co-chair of the bi-partisan Congressional Caucus on Prescription Drug Abuse. Bono Mack said “Rogue ‘pain clinics’ are a national scourge which needs to be eradicated before more innocent Americans become hopelessly addicted to powerful prescription drugs.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 3/19/11]

Said Rouge Pain Clinics Needed to be Eradicated

In February 2011, Bono Mack issued a press release saying rogue pain clinics were a “scourge” and needed to be cracked down on.

“Rogue ‘pain clinics’ are a national scourge which needs to be eradicated before more innocent Americans become hopelessly addicted to powerful prescription drugs. Easy access to these potentially dangerous and deadly drugs is a growing threat across the United States.” [Rep. Mary Bono Mack, press release, 2/23/11]

Touted Voted for Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act

In March 2011, Bono Mack touted her vote for the Small Business Paperwork Mandate Elimination Act. She said, “This is a win-win for everyone. It helps small businesses and their employees, and, according to the Joint Committee by Taxation, it reduces the federal budget deficit by $166 million.” [Rep. Bono Mack, Press Release, 3/3/11]

Attacked for Working Against Prescription Drug Abuse, While Voting to Cut Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Program

In March 2011, Bono Mack was criticized for voting on a spending bill for the federal government that went against her opposition to prescription drug abuse. The DCCC attacked Bono for her February 19th vote on the continuing resolution which cut $96 million used to fund the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services program.

“Representative Mary Bono Mack’s talk about the problem of substance abuse in America is hollow because she actually chose to reduce help to Americans suffering with addictions and looking for recovery,” Jesse Ferguson, spokes-man for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, said in a statement. [Gannett News Service, 3/4/11]

Focused on Prescription Pill Addiction

Co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Prescription Pill Abuse Bono Mack said there was a focus on prescription pill addiction. She said she would hold hearings on the issue.

“Few things are more destructive,” she said. “Addiction continues to be a serious and rapidly escalating problem across America.” [Associated Press, 3/10/11]

46

Hypocrite Takes Government Funded Health Care

In January 2011, Bono Mack said she planned to vote against health care reform, but rejected calls that she gives up her government-funded health benefits. Her criticisms were “attempts to score political points.” [Desert Sun, 1/18/11]

Housing Issues

Presented Certificate to Mortgage Default Industry

In March 2012, Bono Mack presented a Congressional certificate of special recognition for the real estate trade association REOMAC, which serves the mortgage default industry.

More than 1,000 members and industry leaders attended the annual four-day Education Summit & Expo put on by the nonprofit real estate trade association REOMAC in March at the JW Marriott Hotel & Spa in Palm Desert. [Desert Sun, 3/31/12]

Immigration and Border Issues

Criticized a State Legislator Trying To Implement Guest Worker-Style Program in California

In 2012, Bono Mack criticized a state legislator trying to implement a guest worker-style program in California. She said immigration was the exclusive responsibility of the federal government.

Bono Mack, however, said she anticipated the federal government would challenge any state's attempt to set immigration policy. “You cannot approach immigration differently on the border,” Bono Mack said. She said she supported a  “non-amnesty guest worker program.” [Desert Sun, 4/9/12]

Internet Issues

Said Celebrity E-mail Hacking Showed Need for Legislation

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack, at the opening of the fourth privacy hearing at the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Manufacturing subpanel, praised the arrest of a man who hacked into various celebrities’ phones and email accounts, and said it showed the need for creating additional online consumer protections. Bono Mack sponsored legislation that would establish national standards for data security and breach notifications.

Although the bill as currently written would not apply to the celebrity hacker recently arrested, a member of Bono Mack’s staff said there was discussion of adding a provision that would require e-mail providers to inform customers if they know or suspected a user’s account had been hacked. “We’re thinking that at a very minimum, [the email provider] should let you know ‘we think you’ve been hacked, you should change your password’,” said Bono Mack’s staffer. [The Hill, 10/13/11]

47

Sided with Industry Representatives in Allowing Teens to Erase Personal Information About Themselves Online

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack, along with industry representatives, questioned the viability of the eraser provision in the Barton-Markey children’s privacy bill, which would require companies to require companies when technologically feasible to allow teens to erase publicly available personal information online about themselves. Bono Mack said that she did not plan on holding a hearing on the measure. [National Journal, 10/19/11]

Focused on Online Privacy, Prescription Drugs and Jobs Shipped Overseas

In 2012, the Press Enterprise reported that Bono Mack would be focusing on online privacy concerns, prescription drug abuse and ways to bring overseas jobs to the United States. “One of the best ways to do that is to create a favorable business climate by eliminating costly, job-killing regulations which make no sense in today’s world,” she said.

Bono Mack said she hoped to build on recent successes in that area, including one firm’s decision to relocate its designer clothing manufacturing plant from China to her Riverside County district, a move that her spokesman, Ken Johnson, said would bring the area an estimated 400 jobs in the next few years. [Press Enterprise, 1/8/12]

Co-Sponsored SOPA

In 2012, Bono Mack along with a handful of Southern California legislators were co-sponsors of the Stop Online Piracy Act (SOPA). “Along with Schiff, California co-sponsors of SOPA include Democratic Reps. Joe Baca, Karen Bass, Howard Berman (an original co-sponsor), Judy Chu and Brad Sherman, and Republican Reps. Mary Bono Mack and Elton Gallegly. They are all from Southern California. [Politico, 1/17/12]

Proposed Legislation to Prevent Data Theft

In her opening statement before the House Energy and Commerce Committee Bono Mack touted her legislation to ensure American consumers are appropriately protected from data theft. H.R. 2577, the Secure and Fortify Electronic (SAFE) Data Act.

She stated “The Secure and Fortify Electronic (SAFE) Data Act, requires reasonable security policies and procedures to protect personal information, and to provide for nationwide notice in the event of a security breach.” [Rep. Bono Mack, opening statement, Energy and Commerce Committee, 7/19/11]

SAFE Data Act would Protect Consumers, Help Business

According to the Huffington Post, the SAFE Data Act, would be “a solid legislative framework that would require organizations holding sensitive personal information to implement reasonable security procedures, create market incentives to adopt strong security measures, and ensure consumers are notified when a breach puts them at risk of identity theft, fraud or other unlawful activity.”

48

The Huffington Post also noted, the national system would replace differing state regulations, easing compliance, which would be good for business and consumers. [Huffington Post, 7/21/11]

Criticized By Democrats for Being Weak

According to the Washington Post, the SAFE Data Act, “would require companies to notify the FTC and consumers of data breaches, but has drawn criticism from Democrats for not being strong enough on consumer protection.” [Post Tech, Cecilia Kang, Washington Post, 7/22/11]

SAFE Data Act would Establish Uniform National Standards

The SAFE Data Act is aimed at protecting consumers by establishing uniform national standards.

Bono Mack said, “Consumer notification is often hampered by the fact that companies must first determine their obligations under 47 different state regimes.” [GovInfoSecurity.com, 7/21/11]

Proposed the Secure and Fortify Electronic Data Act

In 2011, Bono Mack proposed a new data security bill, called the Secure and Fortify Electronic Data Act, which would enforce companies that are breached by hackers who stole consumer information to notify customers within 48 hours of assessing and identifying the intrusion. [Politico, 6/13/11]

Voiced Concern Over Security Breaches Online; Poised to Introduce Data Accountability and Trust Act

After Epsilon, a Texas-based company that provides an e-mail message service was hacked into and consumer information was taken the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade wrote a letter voicing concern over the security of consumer’s information. Bono Mack said “In the simplest fashion, a criminal can easily create a phishing e-mail that could lead an unwitting consumer into financial disaster.”

Bono Mack was expected to introduce the Data Accountability and Trust Act, designed to protect consumers from security breaches. [National Journal, 4/6/11]

Expressed Interest in Focusing on Online Privacy

In March 2011, Bono Mack expressed interest on leading legislative effort on online privacy. [The Hill, 3/31/11]

Featured Speaker at Adweb 3.0 Event

On April 11, 2011, Bono Mack was the featured speaker at the Adweb 3.0 event in San Francisco. The event was described as an “exclusive networking forum for companies and executives working in advertising within the media, professional services, agency, marketing, design, and technology sectors.” [Desert Sun, 4/4/11]

Said She Would Take Up Issue of Online Privacy

49

In March 2011, Bono Mack circulated a “dear colleague” letter urging Congress to take up the issue of online privacy. She said that her committee would take up the issue because “Even though we live in a nation where freedom is paramount, we have a responsibility, as policymakers, to protect those who are unable to protect themselves.” [The Hill, 3/17/11]

Israel

Jobs Issues

Knitwear Factory that Bono Mack Toured Had Financial Problems – Counted on Grant Bono Mack Said Wouldn’t Come

In 2012, Bono Mack toured a knitwear factory in Coachella Valley – but the owner admitted that she was having financial troubles and that she bounced checks to employees.

Tala said she is awaiting a $180,000 federal grant that, she said, was coming in early April. Ken Johnson, a spokesman for Bono Mack, said Thursday he was doubtful about the existence of a federal grant. “We gave Tala Enterprises a list of small-business grants which they might qualify for, but that’s the same constituent service we have provided to hundreds of local businesses,” he said. “To the best of my knowledge, Tala Enterprises never received any federal funding.”

The owner said she would use such grant money “to catch up on payroll and operating expenses. It will make it easier to pay bills.” [Desert Sun, 3/30/12]

Launched Effort to Develop Legislative Strategy to Create more Manufacturing Jobs

In 2012, it was reported that Bono Mack launched an effort to develop a national strategy to create more manufacturing jobs. Bono Mack claimed she was working on the legislative strategy. “My job is to find that sweet spot of still protecting consumers, protecting the American people, yet allowing jobs to flourish,” Bono Mack said.

Bono Mack said she also hoped officials addressed the corporate tax rate, look at tort reform and repeal burdensome regulations. “There are things we should be doing to bring some of the manufacturing home,” Bono Mack said. “When we recognize we have to compete against China and Mexico for manufactured goods, there are a lot of impediments. But at the same time, there is a lot of opportunity.” [Desert Sun, 1/12/12]

Occupy Wall Street Spin-Off Protested Outside Bono Mack’s Office

In 2011, Bono Mack had Occupy Coachella Valley movement protestors outside of her office. The Occupy Coachella Valley movement -- a spin off of Occupy Wall Street, which began in New York -- have emerged in growing numbers in Palm Desert. [Palm Desert Patch, 10/10/11]

Bono Mack’s Office was Site of Protest Over Corporate Greed

50

In 2011, Bono Mack’s office was the site of Coachella Valley's residents participating in ongoing nationwide protests against corporate greed and the perceived lack of governmental response to the failing economy. “One hundred percent of the people that I know — friends and family — have been negatively affected by the meltdown in the financial world,” Cathy Sciaini of Palm Desert said. [Desert Sun, 10/9/11]

Labor and Working Family Issues

Said Unemployment Should Only Be to Get-Through-Crisis

In 2011, Bono Mack joined Republicans in passing funds for unemployment with restrictions like less numbers in benefits. “Republicans this week in passing a $180billion measure that renews federally funded unemployment benefits through 2012 but gradually reduces the maximum number of benefit weeks from 99 to 59. The 234-193 vote was largely along party lines.”

Bono Mack said “Unemployment benefits should provide short-term, get-through- the-crisis help — not endless government payments.” [Desert Sun, 12/16/11]

Attacked Project Labor Agreements on Government Contracts, Saying They Allowed Union Labor Only

Bono Mack criticized regulations and gave the example of the President’s requirement to implement require project labor agreements on government construction projects, she claimed they cost more than $25 million. She said with 20 percent unemployment in the California construction industry “crony contracts” were wrong. She said PLAs meant “union labor only” and were a waste of taxpayer money. She said “Enough already. Let’s put an end to political favoritism. Let’s demand the best deal for the taxpayers.” [Bono-Mack Floor Remarks on H.Res 72, 2/10/11]

Said White House Was No Longer Anti-Business

Mary Bono Mack said in 2008 and 2009 the White House was very anti-business,” but she said that was changing. “We have a long way to go,” Bono Mack said. “To this day, the economy is hurting and we're hearing constantly about how people are struggling.

“We need to once again feel that the next generation after us is going to be better off than we were.” [The Desert Sun, 2/4/11]

Said She Would Work with White House on Job Creation

Mary Bono Mack said she would work with the White House on her ideas for job creation. “Having been a small business owner, I can say that I know first and foremost that the greatest impediment to growing a business can be the government at times,” Bono Mack said. [The Desert Sun, 2/4/11]

Wrote Letter to Obama Advocating for Trade Agreements and Less Regulation

51

In January 2011, Bono Mack wrote a letter to President Obama that advocated for regulatory fairness, intellectual property protection, rewarding innovation, trade agreements with Korea, Colombia and Panama and opposing regulations such as greenhouse gas emissions that she said hurt the economy. [Official Press Release, Mary Bono Mack, 1/27/11]

In January 2011, in her response to President Obama’s State of the Union Bono Mack said “The way forward is clear: creating new jobs and preserving existing jobs here at home should be our top priority. If successful, we will strengthen our economy, reduce the deficit and enhance U.S. competiveness.” [Official Press Release, Mary Bono Mack, 1/26/11]

Military Issues

Reached Agreement to Reduce Military Flights into Palm Springs Airport

In March 2012, Bono Mack said that the Department of Defense planned to reduce military flights into Palm Springs International Airport to reduce noise levels. Bono Mack met with senior DOD officials and penned several letters to Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, asking him to explain the increased number of flights into the airport. According to Bono Mack, there was a 58 percent jump in 2011 alone, and she added that the DOD also planned to launch outreach programs to address noise issues.

“While I remain fully supportive of the military’s need to maintain current readiness rates, the dramatic increase in takeoffs and landings – especially in 2011 – raised some legitimate and serious concerns,” Bono Mack said. [Palm Desert Patch, 3/23/12]

Said Death of Bin Laden was No Excuse for “Hasty Retreat” from Afghanistan

In May 2011, when the Desert Sun asked of the death of bin Laden was reason to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan immediately? Bono Mack said it should not be used as an excuse to "beat a hasty retreat." [Desert Sun, 5/8/11]

Said President Should Follow Advice of Generals in Afghanistan

Bono Mack said the president should follow the advice of his generals on making decisions about Afghanistan.

She said, “While all Americans want the war in Afghanistan to be over soon, I would trust the advice of General (David) Petraeus and other senior military leaders as to how many troops should come home and how soon…In the final analysis, the president should avoid taking the political path of least resistance and lean heavily on the expert opinions of his military advisers.” [Desert Sun, 6/23/11]

Said Military Leaders Should be Listened To in Response to President’s Intention to Draw Down Troops in Afghanistan

In 2011, Bono Mack responded to President Obama announcing his intention to recall 33,000 U.S. troops from Afghanistan by the end of 2012 by saying that he should listen to military leaders.

52

Bono Mack said “In the final analysis, the President should avoid taking the political 'path of least resistance' and lean heavily on the expert opinions of his military advisors.  While all Americans want the war in Afghanistan to be over soon, I would trust the advice of General Petraeus and other senior military leaders as to how many troops should come home and how soon.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 6/22/11]

Supported Funding for Wars in Iraq and Afghanistan

In 2008, Bono Mack voted in favor of a motion to concur to the Senate amendment to the House amendment no. 1 that would appropriate $165.4 billion for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, including $99.5 billion for military operations for fiscal 2008 and $65.9 billion for fiscal 2009.

In its consideration of the supplemental spending bill, the Senate stripped out the House provision regarding conditions on the war. Many Democratic leaders voted against amendment No. 1 because it removed “reasonable conditions in defining what [the] national policy [was] in Iraq.” [Statement by Rep. Obey, H5667, 6/19/08]

In a floor statement about the legislation, Speaker Pelosi declared her intention to vote against Amendment No. 1 “because of the huge amount of money that is in this bill to fund the war in Iraq without any conditions, without any limitation on time spent there…We owe our troops more than sending them into war on a false premise, without the equipment and training they need, without a plan for success, without a strategy to leave. This war has not made the region more stable, it has not made our country safer. It has undermined our capability to protect the American people. It should come to an end safely, honorably, responsibly, and soon.” [Statement by Speaker Pelosi, H5671, 6/19/08]

The motion was agreed to by a vote of 268-155. [HR 2642, Vote #431, 6/19/08]

Would Support Defense Cuts

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack stated that she would support cuts to the defense budget, “as long as they are done right.”

“I hope that our next president will have a strategic and a clear vision on our foreign policy around the world and for the best use of our military,” Bono Mack said. [Desert Sun, 10/2/11]

Voted to Cut Programs that Helped 140,000 California Students and Provided Legal Service to Help Veterans Obtain Benefits

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted for the continuing resolution House spending bull that cut more than $100 million from groups that helped some of California’s neediest. The programs on the chopping block included programs that helped families by building affordable homes, mentoring kids, caring for the elderly and providing assistance in under-resourced schools. The LA Times reported “Federal cuts in national service programs could be costly in California.”

House Republicans worked to eliminate AmeriCorps and other national service program who worked for Habitat for Humanity, provided free legal help to veterans struggling to obtain disability benefits. In February 2011, the House approved $1.15 billion in cuts for the Corp. for National and Community Service, effectively shutting down the federal agency that operates AmeriCorps. Other programs that

53

would be eliminated included Senior Corps, which engaged 55 and older in community service and Learn and Serve America, which worked with 140,000 California students.

In a statement Bono Mack said “It’s simply irresponsible to keep borrowing money for programs that we can no longer afford as a nation — no matter how well intentioned.” [LA Times, 4/3/11]

Voted for Extension of Patriot Act

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted to extend the Patriot Act. The vote did not go along party lines, with 26 Republicans voting against the extension. The extension was rejected in the House with a bi-partisan vote. [Politico, 2/8/11]

Voted to Eliminate Helicopter-Airplane Military Project

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted for Luis Gutierrez’s amendment to eliminate the -22 Osprey, a hybrid helicopter-airplane. It failed 105-326. [San Francisco Chronicle, 2/28/11]

Miscellaneous

Would Consider Obama’s Proposal to United States the World’s Top Travel Destination

In 2012, Bono Mack said she would consider Obama’s proposal to United States the world’s top travel destination. Coachella Valley tourism leaders received a report that showed another month of double-digit occupancy and revenue growth. Bono Mack said, “I look forward to carefully reviewing the president’s proposal and plan to hold a hearing soon to discuss the best ways to move forward and strengthen our $1.2 trillion travel and tourism industry.” [Desert Sun, 1/20/12]

Accused Obama of “Brilliant Words,” But No Action on Jobs

In 2012, Bono Mack accused Obama of “brilliant words,” but no action on jobs. She wrote a letter to the President before his State of the Union Address and wrote, “For too long now, we have heard brilliant words from this administration, followed by little action or a quick reversal of policy.”

She also urged the President to support the Keystone XL pipeline, writing, “Our nation is confronting many difficult problems. After a record 35 months of unemployment at 8.5 percent or above – the longest such stretch since the Great Depression – it’s time for this administration to get serious about creating new jobs,” she wrote. [Palm Desert Patch, 1/23/11]

Honored Former First Lady FordIn 2011, Bono Mack honored the death of former First Lady Betty Ford, who had previously been Bono Mack’s honorary campaign chairperson.

Bono Mack said, “Mrs. Ford was a great first lady, a remarkable woman and valued friend. Our nation has lost a national treasure with her passing.” [Desert Sun, 7/17/11]

54

Paid Tribute to Three Veterans Monuments

In May 2011, Bono Mack paid tribute to three veterans’ monuments in Palm Springs with an entry into the Congressional record. She made an entry praising the “Desert Fliers command Distinguished flying Cross Wall of Honor,” “On a Wing and a Prayer Missing Man Monument,” and “Freedom,” the three veterans monuments.

Bono Mack said, “[i]t is my hope these memorials serve as powerful reminders of how our nation’s liberty and justice have been preserved by the dedication of our armed forces. May their patriotic spirit and devotion to our nation continue to inspire Americans for generations to come.” [Desert Sun, 5/26/11]

Stressed the Importance of Not Forgetting Those Who Fought for Freedom on Memorial Day

In May 2011, Mack was invited as the guest speaker at the Montecito Clubhouse at Sun City Shadow Hills for the third annual Memorial Day Ceremony. She stressed the importance of not forgetting those who fought for freedom.

Mack said, “I am truly honored to be with you today for this very special and most sacred observance….[b]ut even more importantly, I stand here this morning inspired and humbled by the extraordinary sacrifices that millions of Americans have made throughout our nation’s long history.” [Desert Sun, 5/31/11]

Said NFL Should be Allowed to Continue Negotiations Without Government Involvement

In 2011, Bono Mack said the NFL should be allowed to continue negotiations in the National Football League without government interference. “As far as the strikes go, the government needs to stay out of it and let the negotiations continue,” Bono Mack said. Bono Mack’s Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade had jurisdiction over sports-related matters. [Palm Desert Patch, 4/26/11]

Attended Stagecoach Country Music Festival with Husband

In 2011, Bono Mack and her husband attended the Stagecoach country music festival in California. [Desert Sun, 5/1/11]

Native American Issues

Expected to Speak at Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Chairman Richard Milanovich’s Memorial

In March 2012, Mary Bono Mack was expected to speak at the memorial service for Richard M. Milanovich, Chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Tribal Council, at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Gov. Jerry Brown also announced he would speak at the service. [Desert Sun, 3/19/12]

Rumored to be Taking Cues on Internet Poker from Indian Casinos in District

In 2011, Bono Mack was rumored to be taking her cues on an Internet poker bill from several large Indian casinos in her district. Bono Mack suggested that Congress slow down in considering legalization.

55

Influential tribes, would prefer a state-by-state solution to Internet poker, but big gaming was pushing for an Internet poker bill. [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 11/6/11]

Expressed Concern on Impact Internet Gambling Could Have on Tribes

In 2011, Bono Mack expressed concern on the impact internet gambling could have on the tribes in her district. Barton’s Internet gambling bill, HR-2366, aimed to legalize online poker playing by requiring Web gambling sites to obtain licenses and maintain a database of all their online poker players – Bono Mack said a mark-up of the bill was not imminent. Bono Mack said “It’s very important to remember how tribal gaming has improved the lives of thousands of Native Americans and I want to make certain that they are not adversely impacted by online gambling -- legal or otherwise.” [Washington Internet Daily, 11/21/11; National Journal, 11/18/11]

Tribe Told Bono Mack Congress Failed to Consult on Internet Gambling; She Claimed Criticism Wasn’t Against Her

In 2011, the Morango Band of Mission Indians told Bono Mack that Congress failed to adequately consult tribal governments about possible bills to legalize Internet gambling. Bono Mack’s spokesman Ken Johnson said later she has met with Robert Martin, chairman of the Morango Band several times and that his complaint was directed at other members. Bono Mack expressed confidence Internet gambling could be effectively regulated and social problems could be minimized. [Gannett News Service, 11/18/11]

In 2011, Bono Mack considered legalizing internet gambling, he district had seven Indian casinos which provided important economic support. A Senate committee considered the legalization of Internet gambling, which could threaten the billions of dollars of casino revenues that have powered economic development on Indian lands over the past two decades. Bono Mack held hearings on the issue and had seven Indian casinos, which she has labeled “a huge plus” because of the jobs and economic activity they support. [Gannett News Service, 11/17/11]

Said in Many Respects Genie was Out of Bottle on Internet Gambling

In 2011, Bono Mack said in many respects the genie was already out of the bottle on internet gambling. She said “So in many respects, the genie is already out of the bottle. And now it’s up to Congress to decide whether Internet gambling across state lines should be legal or illegal.” [Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, 11/18/11]

Had Jurisdiction Over Online Poker Issues – Tribes in Sacramento Split on Legalization

In 2011, Bono Mack had jurisdiction over online gambling issues as the Poker Players Alliance spent more than $1.1 million to dispatch a team of 20 lobbyists to Capitol Hill to build support for federal legislation to legalize online poker. The Press Enterprise reported “Lawmakers in Sacramento and Washington are closer than ever to legalizing some type of Internet gambling.”

In Sacramento, the state’s influential gaming tribes were divided on whether the state should legalize online gambling, however in DC California tribes oppose the federal legalization of online poker. [Press Enterprise, 11/27/11]

56

Said She was Being Lobbied on Online Poker; Said Various Tribe Viewpoints Were All Valid

In 2011, Bono Mack said she was being lobbied on all sides over online poker gambling issues. “Increased lobbying brings the issue to the forefront of what the members are paying attention to,” she said, noting that the pro-online camp has even inundated her Facebook page and Twitter account. “The tribes have various viewpoints,” Bono Mack said. “And they’re all valid.” [Press Enterprise, 11/27/11]

Approached by Realtors Over Difficulty with Indian Land Leases

In March 2011, Bono Mack was approached by Realtors who had encountered delays and other problems when dealing with home purchases on Indian lease land.

Bono Mack sent a letter to the Bureau of Indian Affairs Director asking the agency to work with her to address the concerns. [Desert Sun, 4/03/11]

Personal Issues

Had Over $800,000 in Personal Wealth

In 2011, the Center for Responsive Politics showed that Bono Mack had $848,035 in personal wealth. [Gannett News Service, 11/15/11]

Husband Reported Few Independent Assets

Bono Mack’s Husband, Rep. Connie Mack IV reported fewer assets than his wife in their financial disclosure. Connie Mack “reported partial ownership worth as much as $1,000 in a rental property in Durango, Colo., bought in October 2010. The mortgage for the property through Wells Fargo Bank is at least $250,000. But the rest of his 24-page report is devoted to repeating the stock ownership and transactions of his wife.” [News-Press, 6/15/11]

Financial Disclosure Showed Assets Between $486,800 and $1.95 Million

In June 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack held investment assets between $486,800 and $1.95 million, including a vacation home in Colorado, at the end of 2010. She received between $131,100 and $1.1 million in unearned income from royalties, capital gains, dividends and other income.

She also had a vacation property in Durango, Colorado worth $250,000 and $500,000. The Center for Responsive Politics calculated Bono Mack’s net worth at between $761,000 and $3.11 million, ranking her 122nd in the 435-member House. [Desert Sun, 6/18/11]

Supported Stepson Chaz Bono after Sex Change Operation; Unclear if She Would Officiate Wedding

57

In May 2011, Bono Mack said she stood behind her stepson Chaz Bono, who was getting married after a sex-change operation, but it remained unclear whether she would officiate the wedding. Bono Mack appeared on Piers Morgan’s show on CNN and said “[t]his is family, and family is so important.”

Bono Mack said was in full support and stood behind her stepson, Chaz Bono. Bono widely publicized the transition from female to male. When asked whether her support would be unpopular among her Republican colleagues, Bono Mack joked that she wasn’t exactly popular among some of Chaz’s friends, either. “We put our love for one another ahead of politics,” she said. [Blog, Press Enterprise, 5/22/11]

Stood Behind Stepson Who Became Man

In 2011, Bono Mack stood behind stepson after becoming a man. The Desert Sun reported that she voted against “don’t ask, don’t tell.”

“Chaz Bono, formerly Chastity Bono, has been on a national publicity tour discussing his new book and documentary on OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network.” Bono Mack appeared in the documentary and said loved ones go before politics. “This is family, and family is so important, and Chaz has been such a hugely important part of my life. But by the same token, I kind of kid Chaz because I’m not really popular in Chaz’s community, either.” [Desert Sun, 5/16/11]

Featured in “Becoming Chaz”

Bono Mack was featured in “Becoming Chaz,” a documentary about Chaz Bono going under hormonal, surgical and legal procedures to become a man. Bono Mack is featured as Bono’s stepmother and appeared to regard the decision as a non-issue. [Variety, 2/8/11]

Attended Scientology Classes

Bono Mack attended scientology courses with husband Sonny but never took to the religion. In February 2011, the church being investigated for physical abuse and human trafficking. Bono Mack’s late husband, Sonny Bono, was a well-known Scientologist. [Salon, 2/10/11]

Estate Once Owned By Bono Mack and Sonny Bono was on Market for $3.9 Million

In February 2011, The estate once owned by Bono Mack and Sonny Bono was on the market for $3,995,000. The estate sat on 1.5 acres with a 6,648-square-foot main house, two guesthouses, a tennis court and swimming pool. The home had three bedroom suites for a total of six bedrooms and 71/2 bathrooms and was sold in 1998 for $1.4 million. [Los Angeles Times, 2/2/11]

Caught in Torrid Photographs

Bono-Mack was caught in a scandal in which she was photographed having another woman lick her breast.

58

The woman apparently licking Bono Edra Blixseth, a disgraced former billionaire who is at the center of a criminal investigation probing whether she made fraudulent representations about her financial worth to a number of banks.

“Mary was partying hard,” one source, who was at the event, told RadarOnline.com. “She was blitzed and clearly having a great time.”

Blixseth donated $1,500 to Bono Mack’s 2006 congressional campaign and even served as a finance committee member. She was also once a top Republican Party donor. [Radaronline.com, 1/08/11]

Political Issues

Endorsed by Riverside County Young Republicans

In March 2012, the Riverside County Young Republicans announced its endorsements for county, state and federal races. Bono Mack received an endorsement from the group. [The Press-Enterprise, 3/21/12]

McCain Campaigned for Bono Mack’s Reelection in 2006

In March 2012, the Political Insider blog reported that McCain and Bono Mack have known each other for years. The Arizona Republican, who ran for president in 2008, came in Rancho Mirage in 2006 to campaign for Bono Mack’s reelection. [Blog, Political Insider, Desert Sun, 3/5/12]

Backed State Assemblyman Paul Cook in Newly-Drawn 8th District; Co-Chaired Cook’s Campaign

In March 2012, Bono Mack backed Paul Cook, the state assemblyman for the San Gorgonio Pass in his election bid in the newly-drawn 8th Congressional District. Bono Mack was named co-chair for Cook’s campaign, along with several other local lawmakers. [Banning-Beaumont Patch, 3/22/12]

Cook Report Ranked District as “Likely Republican”

In 2012, the Cook Political Report updated its analysis of competitive House races, ranking the 36th district seat as “likely Republican.” According to officials, the ranking means “these seats are not considered competitive at this point but have the potential to become engaged.” [Blog, Desert Sun, 2/20/12]

Endorsed Romney in Republican Presidential Primary Race

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack endorsed former governor of Massachusetts Mitt Romney in the GOP presidential primary race.

“I love the fact that he is a man who has talked about the early stages of starting a company and how he had to take risks, not expect the government to back him up or create the business,” Bono Mack said. [Desert Sun, 11/9/11]

Headline: Growing Latino Base in Coachella Valley Means Strong Challenge for Republican Seat

59

In 2011, Chris Clarke is an environmental writer wrote that Bono Mack may have a fight on her hands because she was facing Raul Ruiz, an emergency room physician and health care reform activist from Palm Desert, raised $51,999 in the first two weeks of his campaign. Bono Mack has been fundraising continuously, and brought in $145,739 during the third quarter of 2011, less than half of what Ruiz’s campaign raised on dollars per week basis.

California’s 36th Congressional District, which is very similar to the pre-redistricting 45 th , is becoming increasingly Latino. The 45th was 38% Latino in the 2010 Census, and that trend has only grown stronger in the past year. A voter registration campaign targeting Latino residents by supporters of challenger Ruiz over the next year could prove Bono Mack’s undoing. [Commentary, KCET, 10/19/11]

Ruiz Had Enough Time to Raise Recourses and Launch Credible Campaign Against Bono Mack

In 2011, it was reported that experts expected Ruiz to have time to raise enough money to launch a credible campaign against Bono Mack. “The race for the 36th seat is Ruiz’s first venture into politics. Until now, the 39-year-old emergency room physician has made his name by advocating improved access to health care across the Coachella Valley.” [Desert Sun, 12/27/11]

Speculated Constituents May Vote Out Incumbents and Usher New Crop of Freshman

In 2012, in the wake of three California GOP retirements Bono Mack said states may vote out incumbents and usher a new crop of freshman. She said the jury was still out on what effect the Congressional shake-up would have on California. “I think the people who organized and felt so strongly in both the open primary system and redistricting being done by the independent commission, should feel that these are the fruits of their labor.” [89.3 KPCC, 1/13/12]

“No Party Preference” Candidate Paul Servelle Announced Run Against Bono Mack

In 2012, it was reported that “no party preference” candidate Paul Servelle of Palm Springs was going to try to unseat Bono Mack against. The 68-year-old retired educator tried to make the ballot in 2008. Servelle said his campaign will be based on “a lifetime of loving politics.” [Desert Sun, 1/22/12]

Praised Mitt Romney for Business Experience

In 2011, Bono Mack said she endorsed Mitt Romney in part because of his business experience. “I love the fact that he is a man who has talked about the early stages of starting a company and how he had to take risks, not expect the government to back him up or create the business,” she said. [Desert Sun, 11/10/11]

Republican Opponent Against Bono Mack Reportedly Had Second Thoughts

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that Republican Steve Grasha did not appear to have a viable campaign against Bono Mack in the 2012 congressional race. “Grasha may be having second thoughts: As of last week, the Federal Election Commission website showed no campaign paperwork for the desert businessman.” [Desert Sun, 11/6/11]

60

Bono Mack had Registration Advantage in District

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that Bono Mack’s district had a slim Republican voter registration edge and Bono Mack would be difficult to beat. “Republicans have a slim voter registration edge there and Bono Mack’s longevity and relative popularity give her a large advantage over any challenger, including Pérez. Democrat Raul Ruiz, an emergency physician at Eisenhower Medical Center, and Republican Steve Grasha, a desert businessman, have both said they’re in the 2012 race.” [Desert Sun, 10/12/11]

Republican Steve Grasha Announced Run Against Bono Mack

In 2011, Coachella Valley businessman Steve Grasha announced he would file his candidacy to run against Bono Mack in the 36th district in 2012. The Republican said in a release he would be a “tireless advocate for proven ideas to create jobs in the Coachella Valley and roll back government regulation and taxation.” [Desert Sun, 9/18/11]

Raul Ruiz was First Democratic Challenger to Announce Against Bono Mack

In 2011, Dr. Raul Ruiz was the first Democratic challenger to formally announce against Bono Mack, he was also the first Latino she faced. Elle Kurpiewski, president of the Democrats of the Desert and who ran against Bono Mack in 2002, said Ruiz “absolutely” is the candidate who can unseat the incumbent. [Desert Sun, 9/19/11]

Two Potential Democratic Challengers Would Appeal to 47% Hispanic District

In 2011, two strong Democratic candidates who would appeal to the 47% Hispanic district represented by Bono Mack mulled a run for Congress. Assemblyman V. Manuel Pérez and physician Raul Ruiz were both meeting with key political club leaders. [National Journal, 9/19/11]

Did Not Break New Ground in Speech at GOP Convention

In 2011, Bono Mack did not break any new ground in a speech before Republican party elite at the GOP convention, but she increased her profile. The Desert Sun reported those contacts could be needed after Democrat Dr. Ruiz announced he would run against Bono Mack. [Desert Sun, 9/18/11]

Despite Lack of Candidate to Run Against Bono Mack, DCCC Continued to Attack

In 2011, it was reported that despite the fact that there was no candidate to challenge Rep. Bono Mack, the DCCC was attacking her and laying the groundwork for the next election cycle. [Blog, Desert Sun, 8/10/11]

Scheduled to Headline California Republican Party Convention

In 2011, it was announced that Mary Bono Mack would deliver the keynote address at the California Republican Party Convention in Los Angeles. Bono Mack, the only Republican woman in California’s congressional delegation. She was slated to be featured during a banquet dinner and to appear at the convention Saturday, September 17, 2011. [Desert Sun, 8/30/11]

61

Received 63% Score From Heritage Action for America Score Card

Bono Mack received 63% score from Heritage Action for America scorecard in August 2011 that encompassed 30 key votes and 5 co-sponsorships. [Heritage Action for America, accessed 8/29/11]

Said She Advocated for Funding for New Palm Springs Air Traffic Control Tower

In 2011, Bono Mack asserted her support for the new Palm Springs air traffic control tower when the FAA reauthorization legislation did not pass she advocated for continued funding. Bono Mack said she had “gotten solid assurances, however, that the airport tower project will be completed.” She also sent a letter to the House’s transportation committee chair asking that the federal government cover any damage costs to the new tower as a result of the stoppage, according to the statement. [Desert Sun, 8/3/11]

Democrats Saw Opportunity in Bono Mack’s District Due to Redistricting and Her Vote for Ryan Budget

In 2011,  Greg Rodriguez on the executive boards of the Riverside County and California State Democratic Party wrote “Rep. Mary Bono Mack’s continued move to the far right, especially with the vote on the Paul Ryan budget, provides ample room for a Democratic candidate to win this seat with a good campaign team and a clear message on how our current representative votes against the will and needs of the district.” [Columnist, Greg Rodriguez, Desert Sun, 8/7/11]

Described as an Incumbent who Should be Concerned

In 2011, Bono Mack was listed as an incumbent in California who should be concerned. The Hill reported, “Other incumbents who should be concerned include Democrats Linda Sanchez and Jim Costa, and Republicans Brian Bilbray, Dan Lungren and Mary Bono Mack.” [The Hill, 7/28/11]

Bono Mack Had Reason for Concern After Redistricting

In 2011, the redistricted California map showed that Bono Mack’s district remained Republican leaning but The Hill noted the continuous uptick in the Hispanic population in the area and the recent slew of serious challengers she’s faced could lead to tougher elections in the future for Bono Mack. [Blog, The Hill, 7/28/11]

Said She was Examining Infrastructure Legislation that Would Cost State Jobs and Funding

In 2011, Bono Mack said she was still examining the Republican highway appropriations legislation, which could cut highway-mass transit funding by at least 33 percent. The highway-mass transit proposal could cost California $1.3 billion in federal road funding and $468 million in mass transit money. The bill could also cost California $1.26 billion a year, resulting in 17,566 jobs lost and $14.1 billion in cuts and job losses around 490,000 nationally.

Bono Mack said she was reviewing the proposal. “We can save a lot of money by consolidating duplicative programs and eliminating other programs that no longer justify their expense in these difficult economic times,” Bono Mack said. “At the end of this process, I believe a smart, efficient use of our

62

transportation dollars will help to boost the U.S. economy and create new jobs.” [Gannett Washington Bureau, 8/5/11]

Urged Passage of FAA Bill for Palm Springs’ Air Traffic Control Tower; Opposed Stimulus Which Funded Project

In 2011, Bono Mack voted for the House version of the FAA bill and accused the Senate of holding up construction on the Palm Springs’ $24.5 million air traffic control tower that skidded to a halt due to the failure of Congress to re-authorize the bill. Bono Mack urged the Senate to pass the FAA bill that cut federal subsides for various small airports around the country. “Instead of protecting wasteful subsidies for a few small airports, the Senate can save millions of dollars each year for American taxpayers,” Bono Mack said. [Editorial, Desert Sun, 7/26/11]

Voted Against Stimulus Which Provided Funding for Palm Springs Control Tower

In 2011, Bono Mack voted against the stimulus package in 2009 that gave additional funding for the construction on the Palm Springs’ $24.5 million air traffic control tower that skidded to a halt due to the failure of Congress to re-authorize the bill. Although Bono Mack touted that she worked for years to secure millions of dollars in tower funding, Bono Mack voted against the 2009 $787 billion federal economic stimulus package that pushed the project across the finish line. Bono Mack’s office has said her opposition to the stimulus bill while praising the tower funding makes sense because the overall bill was filled with “waste” and “fraud,” while some projects, including the Palm Springs tower, justified the cost. [Editorial, Desert Sun, 7/26/11]

Pougnet Abandons Congressional Campaign

In 2011, Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet abandoned his plan to challenge Bono Mack for Congress in 2012.

Pougnet said he was abandoning the Congressional campaign, and announcing his re-election campaign for Palm Springs Mayor, in hopes of seeing downtown revitalization. [Desert Sun, 7/21/11]

Poker Industry Lobbyists Urged Bono Mack to Back Legislation Friendly to Industry

In 2011, Bono Mack was urged by poker industry lobbyists and Rep. Barton to back legislation to carve out an exemption from federal laws sometimes used to shut down poker websites. “Congresswoman Bono Mack simply said she is open to the idea,” said her spokesman, Ken Johnson. John Pappas, executive director of the lobbying group Poker Players Alliance said he had spoken with Bono Mack’s office. “I oppose Internet gambling and have supported numerous pieces of legislation aimed at curbing online gambling during my years in the Senate,” Senator Feinstein said. “Internet gambling has become too easily accessible to minors, subject to fraud and criminal misuse, and is often used to evade state gambling laws.” [Desert Sun, 3/30/11]

District Could Become Democratic Latino District; Two Credible Candidates Mounted Campaigns

In May 2011, a redistricting map was proposed that could turn the 45th Congressional District from a reliably Republican district into a Democratic, Latino- majority district. The Citizen-Times reported “Already two notable Democrats — Palm

63

Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and Assemblyman V. Manuel Pérez — are suggesting they will mount campaigns against Republican Rep. Mary Bono Mack.” [Citizen-Times, 5/11/11]

Headline: “Votes put Bono Mack’s Commitment to National Monument into Question”

In 2011, Bono Mack’s commitment to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument was called into question. In 2000 she launched a legislative effort to support the monuments. She also championed Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) to obtain land in the monument. Due, in part, to her efforts there were $8.4 million in LWCF appropriations and 11,100 acres were acquired in the monument.

Despite, her support for the project a columnist John Purcell wrote “It’s not clear, however, that her support will continue. Recent votes give cause for concern.” In 2011, Bono Mack voted for House Resolution 1, which reduced LWCF funding from $85 million nationwide to a mere $2 million. She also voted for an Amendment 193 to HR 1, which cut funds for LWCF down to zero.

At stake in the fiscal year 2011 budget was $500,000 for the Bureau of Land Management for the monument and $1.2 million in funding for acquisitions in the Morongo Canyon Area of Critical Environmental Concern. And in the fiscal year 2012 budget there was $1.2 million for the National Monument. [Columnist, John Purcell, Desert Sun, 4/6/11]

Said She was Committed to Running for Re-Election

In 2011, Bono Mack’s husband announced he would not run for U.S. Senate and she said she was committed to running for re-election. “Congresswoman Bono Mack takes great pride in representing the 45th District,” her spokesman, Ken Johnson, said, “She’s 100 percent committed to running for re-election. There are still a lot of things she wants to accomplish.” [Desert Sun, 3/25/11]

Moved Offices in 2011

In February 2011, Bono Mack moved offices to 36-953 Cook St., Suite 104 in Palm Desert. [Desert Sun, 2/17/11]

Pougnet Had Complaint Filed Against Him for Drawing Salary from Charity; He Pointed Out Donor were Also Bono Mack Supporters

In March 2011, Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet was the target of a complaint with California Attorney General’s office due to the salary he earned from a charity he co-founded - Pride Parents Association. The organization provided help to gay parents and Pougnet collected $32,000 of the $53,360 in donations in 2008. In 2009 when fundraising slowed down Pougnet collected $12,000. Pougnet noted the charity’s key donors were Bono Mack supporters. [Desert Sun, 2/21/11]

Introduced Bush at Event Dinner in 2011

March 2011, Bono Mack introduced former President Bush. She said, “With his book being published, he’s opened up a lot more about his different decisions.” [Gannett News Service, 3/3/11]

64

Headline: Looks like Fort Myers Congressman Mack will Seek U.S. Senate

In February 2011, Bono Mack was at a Valentine’s Day event in Washington with her husband Rep. Connie Mack IV who looked to be running for Senate with a $2,400-a-person fundraiser at the Ritz Carlton in Naples just days later. [News-Press, 2/18/11]

Attended Fundraiser for Husband on Valentine’s Day

On Valentine’s Day Bono Mack attended a fundraiser for her husband with lobbyists “Rep. Connie Mack (R-FL) is putting on a couples-themed, early-evening, wine bar event with his wife, Rep. Mary Bono Mack (R-CA). The congressional pair wanted to put on an event for other couples.” [Huffington Post, 2/11/11; Sunlight Foundation, 2/11/11]

Connie Mack was Strongest Challenger in Florida Senate Race

The Miami Herald reported that Connie Mack was the strongest challenger to run against U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson in 2012.

Connie Mack tested waters to run for Senate, while being criticized for spending too little time at home since his wife lived 2,500 miles away. [Miami Herald, 3/6/11]

Looked Forward to Non-Partisan Recommendations of the Redistricting Commission

In a March 2011 press release, Bono Mack said the census confirmed that Riverside County had grown and she looked forward to the recommendations of the non-partisan Citizens Redistricting Commission.

“I look forward to seeing the recommendations of the Citizens Redistricting Commission, and I remain hopeful that this process will continue to be both fair and non-partisan as mandated by voters statewide.” [Rep. Bono Mack, press release, 3/8/11]

Likely Opponent Not Raising Money

Although he filed paperwork, Bono Mack’s likely Democratic opponent had just $2,855 in cash on hand and did not raise any money between Nov. 23 and Dec. 31. [The Desert Sun, 2/7/11]

Steve Pougnet and Bono Mack Continued Attacks Raising Speculation About 2012

Due to the continued attacks between Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and Bono Mack, voters speculated that Pougnet was positioning himself for 2012. Attacks between the two were sparked by Pougnet’s request for a tax increase to cover the cost of purchasing a property for redevelopment, Bono Mack spoke out against his proposal. [Desert Sun, 1/25/11]

Open Government Issues

65

Advocated for Open Government and Free Press

In 2011, Bono Mack wrote “The free press is a cornerstone of democracy. People have a right to know. Journalists have a right to tell.”

She said in honor of Sunshine Week she highlighted media outlet for reporting. She said she was troubled by the lack of transparency and openness in Washington. She said she helped implement policy to broadcast committee and subcommittee meetings.

She wrote “Even though Sunshine Week was established by journalists, it’s really about your right to know what government is doing - whether in Palm Springs, Sacramento or Washington - and why.” [Op-ed, Rep. Bono Mack, Desert Sun, 3/19/11 ]

Outside of the District Issues

Mack Asked How Much Time He Spent in Florida and If He Would Release His Travel Log

In 2012, Mack was asked how much time he would spend in Florida if he was elected and if he would release his travel log. “This is an attempt by political opponents to try to make an issue that just doesn't exist,” he said. [Miami Herald, 4/23/12]

Senator Questioned Rep. Mack and Bono Mack’s Multiple Homestead Exemptions

In 2012, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson questioned Rep. Mack and Bono Mack’s multiple homestead exemptions. Nelson strikes back by questioning Mack having homestead exemption on a condo in Fort Myers, while his wife, U.S. Rep. Mary Bono Mack, has a similar exemption at her home in California. How, Nelson wonders, can Mack and his wife claim two homesteads — and the tax advantages that come with them? The office of the Lee County Property Appraiser Ken Wilkinson says it will look into whether Mack deserves the local exemption. [Editorial, Naples News, 2/29/12]

Ruiz Accused Bono Mack of Failing to be Engaged in the Community

In 2012, Ruiz said Bono Mack was not engaged in the community. He questioned her vote to repeal the Affordable Health Care Act, and to support the 2011 ‘Ryan Budget’ that would have virtually eliminated Medicare.

Ruiz said Bono Mack had failed to make Riverside County a priority. “We have to address the problems: jobs with liveable wages, protecting Medicare for our seniors and investing in education in our schools.” Ruiz said. [Palm Desert Patch, 3/28/12]

Criticized for not Spending Enough Time in District

Bono Mack has been criticized for spending too little time in her district due to her marriage to Rep. Connie Mack from Florida.

66

She dismissed the charges saying “I’ve been dealing with this for years,” she went on to say, “Connie hears the same thing. They say he spends too much time in California, and I spend too much time in Florida.” [Desert Sun, 1/18/11]

Financial Disclosure Forms Suggested Mack and Bono Mack’s Homestead Exemption was Questionable

In 2012, Rep. Mack defended he and his wife’s dual homestead exemptions by claiming he and his wife kept their finances separate, however their financial disclosure forms suggested otherwise. The forms indicated that he was part of a company formed with Bono to buy a ski resort condo in Colorado, and that his financial health substantially improved immediately after the two married in December 2006.

Mack’s lawyer said the reference on the Colorado deed to the couple as California residents doesn’t mean he lives there, and any involvement in the Colorado transaction would not indicate “financial dependence.” His lawyer denied that Rep. Mack had any interest in the Colorado property or in Westerfield Scotch LLC, a corporation he said was formed by Bono and her children to own it, despite indications in the disclosure forms and property records. [Tampa Tribune, 2/22/12]

Questions Arose from Three Different Public Records that Showed Financial Ties Between Mack and Wife:

The Oct. 20, 2010, deed for purchase of the property lists both of them as the purchasers, referring to “Connie Mack and Mary Bono Mack, the grantees, whose legal address is 64505 Via Amante, Palm Springs, California.” Engle said that was to record a mailing address for the real purchaser, Mary Bono.

Another deed a month later, in which Bono and Mack transferred the property to Westerfield Scotch, again refers to the couple as California residents. Engle said Mack’s name is on both deeds only because banks require both spouses to sign property transfer documents.

Mack’s disclosure report for the year 2010 lists him as having a “partner’s share” asset of 16.67 percent of Westerfield Scotch worth $1 to $1,000, and shows an Oct. 22, 2010, purchase transaction worth $1,001 to $15,000 involving the company. It shows him holding a position as an officer in the company. [Tampa Tribune, 2/22/12]

Lee County Property Appraiser Questioned Whether Bono Mack and Connie Mack Entitled to Hold Separate Homestead Exemptions

In 2012, Lee County Property Appraiser Ken Wilkinson said he would confirm whether Connie Mack and Bono Mack were entitled to hold separate homestead exemptions on their homes in Fort Myers and Palm Springs. [Tampa Tribune, 2/24/12]

Appraiser Investigating Bono Mack and Connie Mack Tax Documents to See if Multiple Homestead Exemptions Allowed

67

In 2012, the Lee County Property Appraiser Ken Wilkinson questioned whether Connie Mack and Bono Mack were entitled to hold separate homestead exemptions on their homes in Fort Myers and Palm Springs. He said he was sending a letter to Mack and Bono Mack requesting financial documentation.

Mack and his wife file separate tax returns, are not on each other’s deeds, and are each permanent residents of their respective home districts said David James, Mack’s political adviser. John Renner, general counsel  for Wilkinson’s office wrote a memo which stated if they prove they “established two separate residences in good faith and have no financial connection with and do not provide benefits, income or support to each other, each can be granted homestead exemptions,” the memo reads. [Naples News.com, 2/23/12]

Criticized for Homestead Exemptions on Two Homes

In February 2012, Bono Mack and her husband, Rep. Connie Mack, were criticized by Mack’s political opponents for getting homestead exemptions on both of their homes.

Officials told the Fort Myers News-Press that the couple is legally allowed to file for two exemptions as long as they maintain separate bank accounts, file their taxes separately and confirm neither is on the other’s deed for the property. Public records showed that Bono Mack got a $7,000 exemption on a property worth $1.1 million. [Desert Sun, 2/26/12]

Connie Mack Voted for $500,000 Earmark for City Pool Just Outside Bono Mack’s District

In 2011, it was reported that Rep. Connie Mack voted for a $500,000 earmark for a city pool in Banning just outside the California congressional district of Mack’s wife, Mary Bono-Mack. [Tampa Bay Times, 12/18/11]

Bono Mack’s Husband Criticized for Not Spending Enough Time in Florida

In 2012, after Rep. Mack did not attend the state GOP meeting Mack’s campaign did not return an email and phone message asking why he didn’t attend the meeting. Mack, who is married to California Rep. Mary Bono Mack, had been criticized for not spending enough time in the state. [AP, 1/17/12]

Husband Accused of Not Spending Enough Time in District Due to Bono Mack

In 2012, Rep. Mack was criticized for not spending enough time in Florida due to his marriage to California Rep. Mary Bono Mack. [Miami Herald, 1/16/12]

Accompanied Husband to Studios Where He Made Announcement He Would Run for Senate

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack accompanied her husband Congressman Connie Mack IV to television studios where he made the announcement he would run for Senate and said she supports the decision. “As a family we understand the time and commitment that will be required,” Bono Mack said.

68

“It’s going to be a tremendous amount of work, there’s no doubt about it, but I think we completely understand what we’re in for and believe we’re both up to the task.” [Associated Press, 11/28/11]

Signed on to Husband’s Letter Urging Approval of Keystone XL Pipeline from Obama Administration

In 2011, Bono Mack signed on to her husband’s letter urging President Obama to reconsider his decision to delay approval of the Keystone XL Pipeline until 2013. Mack stated: “It is damaging to hard working Americans that, after a three year process of review and delays on the decision to construct a secondary pipeline from our ally Canada, President Obama has put this project on hold until after next year’s election. Creating U.S. jobs and bringing security to the global economy cannot be placed on hold. An affirmative decision must be rendered without any further delays.” [Senator Mack, press release, 11/25/11]

Did Press Conference in Florida for Romney

In 2012, Bono Mack joined Romney in Florida, where her husband was running for Senate, yet had not held a public rally for her campaign in California. The Desert Sun reported, “Rep. Mary Bono Mack hit the presidential campaign trail last week, but it didn’t include stops in California. Instead, the Palm Springs Republican joined her favorite presidential candidate, former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney, as he tried to woo voters in Florida. The trip served as a double whammy for Bono Mack since her husband, Republican Rep. Connie Mack, is trying to convince Floridians to elect him to the U.S. Senate.”

The Desert Sun also reported, “Indeed, while Bono Mack attended a gathering in Florida of a couple hundred Romney supporters, she has yet to hold a similar public rally for her own campaign in the desert. And her husband’s campaign for the Senate will certainly require her to spend more time in Florida than if he were simply running for re-election to the House.” [Desert Sun, 1/29/12]

Did Press Conference in Florida for Romney

On January 2012, Bono Mack did a press conference in Florida against Gingrich. She “accompanied the former Massachusetts governor on the campaign trail in Florida, along with her husband, Rep. Connie Mack, who is running for a U.S. Senate seat in Florida.” [Press Enterprise, 1/26/12]

Other Social Issues

Advocated for Awarding Author a Congressional Gold Medal; Book Had Factual Inaccuracies Related to Charitable Work

Bono Mack introduced the author of “Three Cups of Tea,” Greg Mortenson around Capitol Hill. 60 Minutes uncovered factual inaccuracies in the book such as Mortenson’s charitable organization taking credit for building schools that didn’t exist. Bono Mack reiterated her support for Mortenson saying “I believe in Greg and the work he is doing under very challenging circumstances.”

“Mary spent an entire day with me, showing me how everything worked,” Mortenson said in the book. “She walked me through a tunnel between her office and the Capitol, with dozens of other representatives

69

on their way to vote, and along the way, introduced me to everyone. She had all these congressmen blushing like schoolboys.”

In 2010 Bono Mack introduced legislation to aware Mortenson with a Congressional Gold Medal. “I meet so many people day in and day out who say they’re trying to do good and help people,” Bono Mack is quoted as saying in the book. “But Greg is the real thing. He’s walking the walk. And I’m his biggest fan.” [Desert Sun, 4/19/11]

Columnist Commended Bono Mack for Introducing Legislation Allowing ATVs to Be Sold to Kids Despite Lead Content

In June 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack’s hearing on Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act discussed the banning over youth ATVs due to lead content. A columnist with the Desert Sun reported “The ban resulted from the law’s overly broad definition of “children’s products,” which expanded so far beyond toys that it ended up banning ATVs and motorcycles specifically designed to meet the size and performance needs of kids. Thanks to this law, these products suddenly became ‘banned hazardous substances’ because small amounts of lead posing no risk to kids are embedded in metal parts like frames and battery terminals to enhance the safety and effectiveness of these components.” The reporter wrote that the ban hit motorcycle dealers in California already dealing with a challenging economic environment.

The columnist went on to commend Bono Mack for her legislation “After two years, we finally have reason to be optimistic with a new Congress. Rep. Bono Mack introduced a bill in May [2011] to amend the law. The bill creates an alternate lead limit for outdoor recreational products such as ATVs and motorcycles that is both safe and realistic.” [Columnist, John Paliwoda, Desert Sun, 6/8/11]

Voted to Cut Funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting

In February 2011, Bono Mack voted to cut federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. The Desert Sun said she did the right thing. [Editorial, Desert Sun, 2/26/11]

Defended Decision to Cut NPR Funding

In February 2011, Bono Mack defended her vote to cut public radio funding saying, “While there are many worthwhile programs on both PBS and NPR, it’s time for public broadcasting to finally stand on its own two feet.”

She went on to say, “Federal subsidies are not warranted - nor appropriate - especially in these difficult financial times.” [Desert Sun, 2/22/11]

Announced Intentions to Strip Tribal Funding for Welfare Programs

As of January 2011, Bono Mack said she intends to strip control of a tribal welfare program from the Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.

70

Bono Mack pointed to evidence of waste and missing accountability for taxpayer funds. “They’ve lose the ability to administer this program. They’ve lost the credibility to administer the program,” she said, after a Desert Sun investigation found a history of mismanagement and deficient financial accounting.

The tribe currently receives more than $20 million a year to provide social services. [Desert Sun, 1/22/11]

Senior Issues

Targeted by DCCC Robocalls for “Wrong Priorities” on Medicare

In March 2012, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee targeted Bono Mack as part of its “Medicare March” campaign. Through automated phone calls, the DCCC contacted district residents to say House Republicans like Bono Mack have “the wrong priorities.”

“House Republicans like Mack demand seniors who earned their Medicare benefits spend thousands more, but refuse to end tax loopholes and giveaways for millionaires,” the call states. “It’s just not fair and it’s not right.” [Blog, The Political Insider, Desert Sun, 3/20/12]

Backed Paul Ryan’s Budget Plan; Called for Dramatic Spending Cuts

In March 2012, Democrats pointed out that Bono Mack backed Rep. Ryan’s budget plan. Ryan’s plan would drastically cut programs like Medicare and Medicaid in order to reduce federal spending.

“We are facing an unprecedented fiscal crisis that is threatening America’s future prosperity,” Bono Mack said in a statement after the April 2011 vote.”To head off this crisis, we need to dramatically cut spending now. It’s outrageous to keep borrowing money for programs that we can no longer afford — no matter how well intentioned — when we have a national debt that is growing by a staggering $4 billion every day.” [Blog, The Political Insider, Desert Sun, 3/20/12]

Voted for the Ryan Budget Which Would Turn Medicare into Voucher Program

In 2012, Bono Mack voted for the Ryan budget against, which made deep cuts to domestic programs. “more than 62 percent of the cuts would come in programs that serve low-income Americans such as Medicaid, food stamps, Pell Grants for college and job training.”

They Ryan budget would “turn Medicare into a system where the elderly would receive a voucher to purchase coverage from the private sector.” The Ryan budget also “Ryan proposes tax breaks of $265,000 to those who make $1 million or more a year.” [Desert Sun, 4/9/12]

Claimed She Did Not Support Cuts to Social Security or Medicare

In 2011, the as the supercommittee discussed what to cut Bono Mack claimed that she did not support any cuts to Social Security or Medicare. She did, however, support cuts to Medicaid because of waste, fraud and abuse – she was accused of sloganeering on Medicaid. [Desert Sun, 11/17/11]

71

Senior Said She Didn’t Trust Bono Mack and Republicans Who Would Renege on Promise to Seniors on Medicare and Medicaid

In 2011, Bono Mack’s constituents in a Knitting circle discussed the Republican budget. The Bellingham Herald reported “knitters said they were alarmed by the notion that the next generation might have to shop for insurance with an $8,000 voucher, the Democratic description of Ryan’s plan. Some were openly skeptical of Republican promises that current seniors would be protected. ‘I don’t trust these guys,’ said Barbara Walden, 77. Once Republicans begin ‘stripping away’ Medicare and Medicaid benefits for the younger generation, she said, they will eventually renege on their promise to protect the program for current seniors.” [Bellingham Herald, 4/23/11]

Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid

Backed Paul Ryan’s Budget that Would Cut Medicare

In 2012, it was reported that Bono Mack backed Paul Ryan’s Republican budget plan that would have reduced federal spending by $4 trillion over the next decade in large part by changes to Medicare and Medicaid. “In no prior race has Congresswoman Bono Mack had to defend the indefensible: her vote to end Medicare,” Rep. Israel said. “Now she’s going to have to defend that.” [Desert Sun, 3/13/12]

Backed Republican Ryan Budget Due to Debt Issue

In April 2011, Mary Bono Mack voted for the Republican Ryan budget, the plan achieved $6 trillion in savings over a decade from Medicare and Medicaid. “We are facing an unprecedented fiscal crisis that is threatening America’s future prosperity,” Bono Mack said in a statement. “To head off this crisis, we need to dramatically cut spending now. It’s outrageous to keep borrowing money for programs that we can no longer afford — no matter how well intentioned — when we have a national debt that is growing by a staggering $4 billion every day.” Critics contended that the plan turned Medicare into a voucher program for people 55 and younger. Critics also said the plan would “gut Medicaid.” [Desert Sun, 4/15/11]

Stem Cells

Tax Issues

Said “Flat Tax” System Might be Appealing

In 2011, it was reported that, in a speech at the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce’s breakfast meeting, Bono Mack said that adopting a “flat tax” system might be “appealing,” but that it would abolish some popular deductions, including homeowner interest and charitable donations.”

“But there’s no question we need a fairer, flatter tax structure,” Bono Mack said. [Desert Sun, 11/9/11]

Argued All Manufacturers that Create American Jobs Should Benefit from Tax Reform

72

In 2012, Bono Mack criticized President Obama’s State of the Union Address saying all manufacturers that create American jobs should benefit from tax reform. “I want all manufacturing to grow. I don’t believe it’s fair that he’s going to pick and choose,” she told The Desert Sun. “If you’re going to give a tax break to one, you should give a tax break to all. If he’s going to lower the taxes — and he should — he should lower the taxes on all on them. For every job you create.” [Desert Sun, 1/25/12]

Claimed She Supported Two Month Payroll Tax Cut Extension – Would Push For Full-Year Extension

In December 2011, Bono Mack claimed she supported a two-month payroll tax cut extension. She stressed that she still expected the Senate to pass a one-year extension. “I am pleased that this deal will provide 160 million hard-working Americans with the tax relief they deserve, and will prevent a tax increase on employees that, without this agreement, would have gone into effect on January 1,” Bono Mack said in a statement.

“The Senate will now join the House in appointing conferees in order to reach an agreement in the weeks ahead on a full-year payroll tax extension.” She went on to say, “The Senate needs to join the House and pass a full, one-year extension of the payroll tax relief plan that does not place unnecessary burdens on job creators or stifle economic growth,” she said. I am hopeful that they will.” [Patch, 12/24/11]

Joined Republicans and Opposed 2-Month Extension of Pay-Roll Tax Cut

In 2011, Bono Mack joined her House Republicans in opposing the two-month extension that had earned bipartisan support in the Senate. [Desert Sun, 12/27/11]

Opened Door to “Flat Tax”

In 2011, Bono Mack said going to a “flat tax” system might be appealing, but would get rid of some popular deductions, like homeowner interest and charitable donations. “But there’s no question we need a fairer, flatter tax structure,” she said. [Desert Sun, 11/10/11]

Reacted to Supercommittee Failure by Saying Solution was Not to Raise Taxes

In 2011, Bono Mack reacted to the failure of the supercommittee by blaming Democrats and saying the solution was not to raise taxes. “The Democrats simply do not understand that it can’t be business as usual. We need to cut wasteful spending, not raise taxes. The American people are deeply angry - and so am I - about the Democrats’ refusal to recognize that their policies are making our stalled economy even worse.” [Desert Sun, 11/22/11]

Spokesperson Walked Back Bono Mack’s Support for Anti-Tax Pledge

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that Bono Mack signed Grover Norquist’s anti-tax-increase pledge, which was so specific that it ruled out eliminating tax deductions and credits. Bono Mack’s spokesperson walked back her commitment to American’s for Tax Reform pledge, which potentially threatened the ability of signers to vote to close tax loopholes.

73

Bono Mack’s spokesperson said “Congresswoman Bono Mack takes her anti-tax pledge seriously, but it takes a back seat to the pledge she made when sworn into office — to support the Constitution of the United States and to serve her district faithfully . . . To the extent possible, Congresswoman Bono Mack would also like to see tax cuts as part of the deficit reduction package, but she’s keeping an open mind until seeing what the final agreement looks like.” [Desert Sun, 7/16/11]

We Can Save $502 Billion Over 5 Years By Cutting Wasteful Spending in the Tax Code. The Center for American Progress has identified over $502 billion in wasteful spending over the next five fiscal years that is hidden within the federal tax code. The spending comes in the form of special tax breaks called tax expenditures. And while the federal government treats tax-code spending differently than direct government spending, the two forms of expenditures are widely recognized to be the functional equivalent. Here are the few examples of tax expenditures that the Center for American progress has deemed wasteful: Taxpayers will spend at least $22.8 billion over the next 5 years subsidizing big oil Taxpayers will spend at least $1.1 billion over the next 5 years subsidizing the coal industry Taxpayers will spend at least $92.5 billion over the next 5 years on subsidies that encourage

companies to ship jobs overseas Taxpayers will spend $114 billion over the next 5 years ensuring that the richest Americans can

receive larger itemized deductions than everyone else Taxpayers will spend $84 billion over the next 5 years specifically subsidizing rental property

landlords Taxpayers will spend $62 billion over the next 5 years subsidizing private business’ eating and

entertainment expenses Taxpayers will spend $6 billion over the next 5 years subsidizing vacation home mortgages and

yacht purchases Taxpayers will spend $4.9 billion over the next 5 years for special subsidies for agribusiness Taxpayers will spend $1.6 billion over the next 5 years for special subsidies for timber companies Taxpayers will spend money on special subsidies to paid to horse breeders. [Center for American

Progress, 3/11]

Tea Party

Received Lowest Scores among State’s Congressional Republicans from American Conservative Union

As of 2011, Bono Mack has received the lowest scores from the American Conservative Union among California’s Congressional Republicans. [Desert Sun, 1/18/11]

Opposed Raising City Taxes to Purchase Land, Mayor Claimed She Privately Supported Eminent Domain

In a December 21, 2010 column in the Desert Sun, Bono-Mack criticized Palm Springs’ proposal to raise one of four city taxes to help purchase the Desert Fashion Plaza. Bono-Mack wrote:

“Palm Springs plans to purchase the Desert Fashion Plaza and Museum Market Plaza are stunning for both their audacity and arrogance.”

74

Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet, who opposed Bono-Mack in her 2010 Congressional race, disputed her article and said that in a past conversation with the her, Bono Mack advised him to “just eminent domain him out of there,” referring to Desert Fashion Plaza owner John Wessman of Wessman Development. [Desert Sun, 1/09/11]

Technology Issues

Scheduled Hearing on Privacy Issues After Google Changed Policy

In February 2012, Bono Mack’s office announced she will hold a hearing on privacy issues in which Google will likely participate as watchdog groups urge a slowdown in Google’s new privacy policy. Bono Mack will serve as chairwoman of the March 29 hearing in the subcommittee on manufacturing, commerce and trade of the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Subcommittee staff members met with Google representatives Monday, Bono Mack spokesman Ken Johnson said, “but no new ground was broken” on Google’s controversial new policy. [Desert Sun, 2/29/12]

Touted her Support of McCain’s Cybersecurity Bill

In March 2012, Bono Mack announced that she would introduce Sen. John McCain’s cybersecurity bill in the House, along with Tennessee Rep. Marsha Blackburn. McCain’s bill is seen as an alternative to the Cybersecurity Act, legislation spearheaded by Sens. Joe Lieberman, and Susan Collins.

“Here’s what I like most about the legislation: The SECURE IT Act emphasizes critical information sharing between industry and government. It does not require a bevy of new federal regulations, nor does it add a single penny to the federal debt,” Bono Mack wrote on her Facebook page. [Blog, Political Insider, Desert Sun, 3/5/12]

Editorial Advocated for Bono Mack to Support Consumers Online Privacy Bill

In 2012, the Oregonian editorial board, through the Leaf Chronicle advocated for Bono Mack to support consumers online privacy bill. The editorial board said there was much to like about the idea of a bill to grant consumers the right to understand control the use of their personal information by companies with access to it.

“We’re not skeptical of the principles. We’re skeptical of the need for legislation,” said Ken Johnson, a spokesman for Rep. Mary Bono Mack, R-Cal. Bono Mack chairs a key subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. [Editorial via Leaf Chronicle, Oregonian, 4/11/12]

Had Not Committed to Mark-Up for Internet Privacy Bill for Children

In 2012, Barton and Markey worked to give children and their parents more control over the data they provide online, but Bono Mack had not committed to a bill markup. “The Markey-Barton bill would prohibit companies from tracking children and teens and sending them targeted ads based on their personal data -- without their or their parents’ consent. It would require websites to give teens and children the means to delete information from those sites.” [National Journal, 3/7/12]

75

Said She Reserved Judgment Over Report that Said Congress Should Enact Privacy Regulations on Internet Companies

In 2012, Bono Mack said she would reserve judgment on a Federal Trade Commission report that said Congress should enact comprehensive legislation to regulate how Internet companies handle consumers' personal information.

“Chairman Bono Mack is encouraged, however, that the FTC has recognized the need to avoid any new undue burdens on small companies,” said Bono Mack’s spokesman. [The Hill, 3/26/12]

Gave Tepid Support to White House “Privacy Bill of Rights”

In 2012, Bono Mack gave tepid support to a White House “privacy bill of rights” that would give consumers more control over their data. She said she would work with the administration but that “any rush-to-judgment could have a chilling effect on our economy and potentially damage, if not cripple, online innovation.” [Calgary Herald, 2/24/12]

Said she Wasn’t Satisfied with Google’s Answers Over Recent Privacy Changes

In 2012, it was reported that after House legislators questioned Google officials for two hours about the company’s recent privacy changes, Bono Mack, chairwoman of the Energy and Commerce Committee’s Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade subcommittee, said she wasn’t satisfied with their answers.

“At the end of the day, I don’t think their answers to us were very forthcoming necessarily in what this really means for the safety of our families and our children,” Bono Mack said. She went on to say, “There's a growing angst in the Congress about privacy — there's no question.” [The Hill, 2/2/12]

Favored SOPA and Delay of Passage of Legislation

In 2012, Bono Mack said she favored the Stop Online Privacy Act, but was okay with the delay in passing the legislation among controversy over the legislations effect. Bono Mack of Palm said she favored the Stop Online Piracy Act. She also supports this delay. “To slow this down a little bit, and ask the questions and to be very public about what this bill does, seems like it’d be a good idea.” [scpr.org, 1/20/12]

Co-Sponsored a Controversial Bill to Impose Stricter Copyright Protection on the Internet – Major Donors Were Proponents of Legislation

In 2011, it was reported that Bono Mack co-sponsored a controversial bill to impose stricter copyright protection on the Internet. “The Stop Online Piracy Act would enable owners of copyrighted content and the Justice Department to take action against ‘rogue’ websites.” Proponents such as the Recording Industry Association of America opposed the theft of intellectual property. Opponents of the legislation included major Internet companies like Google say the bill gives the government overly broad power to punish Web-related companies and would chill innovation.

76

Bono Mack said “Theft of intellectual property hurts our nation's economy and leads to domestic job losses. That's why our founding fathers showed such wisdom and foresight to protect intellectual property in the U.S. Constitution.” [Desert Sun, 12/3/11]

Claimed She was Worried About Government Regulation of Internet – then Backed More Regulation

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that despite Bono Mack’s previous concern about too much government regulation of the Internet, she co-sponsored a controversial bill to impose stricter copyright protection on the Internet. She also received major contributions from proponents of the legislation. For 2012, the television, movie and music industries have so far given her $71,550 out of the $559,708 she's raised for her campaign and personal political action committee.

“The congresswoman takes positions based on the merits of each issue and has never been influenced by whether or not someone supports her,” Johnson said of the campaign contributions. [Desert Sun, 12/3/11]

Sought Information to Protect Consumers from Phone HackingIn 2011, Bono Mack sought information from AT&T, Sprint, Verizon Wireless, Apple, Google among others about how they were going to protect consumers from phone hacking.

In addition, she spoke to News Corp. to make sure that News of the World had not targeted Americans in their wiretapping sting. [Post Tech, Cecilia Kang, Washington Post, 7/13/11]

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Mack bill would set rules for notifying consumers of data breaches”

In 2011, Bono Mack worked on legislation to set up a warning system for victims of hacking. The issue came up after Sony and Epsilon both had been hacked by thieves seeking consumer information. When Bono Mack held a follow-up hearing on the data breach, she said it was not to berate Sony and Epsilon. “I’m not here to point fingers,” she said “Instead, let’s point the way — a better, smarter way — to protect consumers online. As I’ve said, you shouldn’t have to cross your fingers and whisper a prayer when you type in a credit card number on your computer and hit ‘enter.’”

The Desert Sun reported “When asked if such legislation should also make companies hold consumers harmless if thieves end up using their credit card or personal identify information, Bono Mack said, ‘That’s something we will have to look at.’” [Desert Sun, 6/3/11]

Called for A Nationwide Data-Breach Reporting Standard

In June 2011, Bono Mack was working on legislation to protect consumer data and also called for a nationwide data-breach reporting standard. “Consumers have a right to know when their personal information has been compromised, and companies have an overriding responsibility to promptly alert them,” she said. [Bloomberg Businessweek, 6/7/11]

Concerned With Facial Recognition Feature on Facebook

In June 2011, Bono Mack became concerned with Facebook’s new feature that automatically tagged users in photos using facial recognition. She had many questions including whether there were any other uses

77

for the software other than tagging friends, how many people have opted out of the service and if was turned off upon request. “While facial recognition technology has exciting possibilities - and is already being utilized to some extent by Google and Apple - there are some obvious privacy concerns as well, and we intend to examine them as part of the broader online privacy debate,” she said. [National Journal, 6/8/11]

Called on Sony to Explain Security Breach

Bono Mack called on Sony to elaborate on data breach that released personal and billing information of up to 77 million people. Bono Mack called for further explanation. [Washington Post, 4/28/11]

Planned to Introduce Legislation to Protect Consumer Data Online

In April 2011, Bono Mack said she planned to introduce legislation to protect consumer data online. She said the data breach that released personal information on the Sony’s PlayStation Network prompted her legislation.

Bono Mack said “I am deeply troubled by this latest data breach. It reinforces my long-held belief that much more needs to be done to protect sensitive consumer information. Most importantly, Americans should be quickly informed when their personal information has been hacked, especially in instances like this where there is an obvious potential for large scale identity theft.” [Blog, The Hill, 4/27/11]

Expressed Concern that Smart Phones Collected Personal Information without Permission of User

In 2011, Bono Mack expressed concern that smart phones collected personal information without the permission of the user. Bono Mack’s spokesman said she “continues to be very concerned about how Apple’s location-based technology is being used and its impact on privacy. Most importantly, she believes there needs to be better transparency for consumers and, ultimately, some kind of regulatory certainty since both the [Federal Communications Commission] and [Federal Trade Commission] have jurisdiction over various aspects of privacy policy.” [The Hill, 4/25/11]

Criticized Sony for Security Breach and Raised Awareness About Cyber Attacks

In 2011, Bono Mack appeared on C-SPAN to discussed data breaches at Epsilon and Sony’s PlayStation Network. She also led a nationally-televised hearing on the issue to seek answers in what caused the breach.

Bono Mack said “In recent years, sophisticated and carefully orchestrated cyber attacks–designed to obtain personal information about consumers, especially when it comes to their credit card information–have become one of the fastest growing criminal enterprises in the United States and across the world.” [Palm Desert Patch, 5/7/11; Blog, New York Times, 5/2/11]

Headline: “Rep. Mary Bono Mack Irate Over Stolen Data, No-Shows”

In 2011, Bono Mack called the Sony’s PlayStation Network security breach “the Great Brink’s Robbery” of cyber- attacks. Bono Mack promised legislation to protect consumer data. Bono Mack said she was

78

“deeply troubled” not only by the stolen data but by the decisions of both companies not to testify before her committee. [Desert Sun, 5/5/11]

Subcommittee Unsure if Online Consumer Privacy Should be Enhanced

As head of the Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade Subcommittee, Mack was responsible for dealing with online consumer privacy. In February 2011, House Energy and Commerce Chairman, Fred Upton, said privacy is split between Mack’s subcommittee and the Communications and Technology Subcommittee. At the time, they were unsure of the need to enhance consumer privacy. [National Journal, 2/8/11]

Opposed U.N. Control Over Internet; California Nonprofit Oversaw Internet

Bono Mack spoke out against giving the U.N control over the internet. The organization ICANN, a California nonprofit oversaw the internet. “It has become increasingly clear that international governmental organizations, such as the United Nations, have aspirations to become the epicenter of Internet governance,” she said in a statement. “And I'm going to do everything I can to make sure this never happens.” [Politico.com, 3/12/11]

Asked the Federal Communications Commission not to Regulate Wireless Data Roaming

Bono Mack signed on to a letter dated November 23, 2010 asking the Federal Communications Commission not to do anything regarding wireless data roaming. “We are very concerned about this action and respectfully ask the Commission to refrain from moving forward in regulating the wireless market.” [Congressional Letter, 2010 11.23 Cell Phone Roaming, 1/23/10]

In a response dated December 13, 2010 Julius Genachowski thanked Bono Mack for expressing her concerns and stated “the data roaming proceeding remains pending, and the staff is still in the process of reviewing the record and analyzing the arguments and options.” [Congressional Letter, 2010 11.23 Cell Phone Roaming, 1/13/10]

Asked the Federal Communications Commission to Halt Activity on Network Neutrality

Bono Mack signed on to a letter dated November 19, 2010 to Julius Genachowski which advocated for the Federal Communications Commission to “halt activity on network neutrality absent clear direction from Congress.”

The letter was sent from the Committee on Energy and Commerce and signed by other members including Joe Barton and Cliff Stearns. [Committee on Energy and Commerce, 2010 11.19 Network Neutrality Letter, 1/19/10]

Introduced Resolution to Oppose United Nations Governance of Internet

In January 2011, Rep. Mary Bono Mack, as chairwoman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade, re-introduced a resolution for the U.S. to oppose the United Nations taking over the governance of the Internet.

79

Bono Mack said, “It has become increasingly clear that international governmental organizations, such as the United Nations, have aspirations to become the epicenter of Internet governance. And I’m going to do everything I can to make sure this never happens.” [National Journal, 1/26/11]

Trade Issues

Went on Latin American Trip and Advocated for Trade Agreement; Husband was Part of Congressional Delegation

In 2011, Bono Mack advocated for pending free trade agreements with Latin America. She went on a trip to Mexico City and met with Mexican President Felipe Calderón. She also went to Colombia and Panama meeting with those country’s Presidents Juan Manuel Santos and Ricardo Martinelli.

Bono Mack was also interested in trade agreements with Colombia, Panama and South Korea. Estimates showed the pending trade agreements could increase the gross domestic product by $15 billion and create nearly 100,000 jobs, according to Bono Mack’s office. Bono Mack was part of a nine-member delegation that included her husband, U.S. Rep. Connie Mack. [Desert Sun, 5/21/11]

Advocated for Passage of South Korea, Colombia and Panama Trade Deals

During an Energy and Commerce Subcommittee hearing entitled “Made in America: Increasing Jobs through Exports and Trade,” Bono Mack compared America’s trade agreements to the iPhone. She said there were three new generations of iPhones and no trade agreements. She advocated for the United States-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement and said trade agreements with South Korea, Colombia and Panama should move quickly.

Bono Mack said “Let’s make ‘Made in America’ matter again by actually increasing jobs through expanded exports and trade.” She said trade deals could be hung up as a concession to labor. [House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce Manufacturing, and Trade Hearing, 3/16/11]

Transportation Issues

Headline: Bono Mack, Blackburn Introduce Industry-Friendly Cyber Bill

In 2012, Bono Mack joined fellow Republican Marsha Blackburn in introducing industry-friendly cyber security legislation that mirrored legislation introduced by Republicans in the Senate.

According to Nation Journal, the bill would “help companies and the government share information with each other; provides liability protection for companies that seek to secure their networks; and increase criminal penalties for cybercrime.” [Blog, National Journal, 3/27/12]

Wrote Letter to Secretary of Transportation on Interstate 10 Following Traffic Jam

In February 2012, Bono Mack wrote a letter Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood to urge officials to construct an improved management plan for Interstate 10, in order to avoid a repeat of a recent 21-mile-

80

long traffic jam. Bono Mack called it an “intolerable and unacceptable” situation, and asked LaHood to consider electronic message boards so motorists could be informed of upcoming traffic obstructions.

“In reaction to this incident, local officials are now working with the State of California to address the problem, but it has happened before and it will happen again unless a smart plan is put in place,” Bono Mack said in her letter. [Desert Sun, 2/16/12]

Vowed to Keep Eye on Caltrans Plans to Avoid Large Traffic Delays

In 2012, Bono Mack vowed to keep an eye on the Caltrans’ plans to avoid large traffic delays on Interstate 10. Bono Mack posted a letter today on her website from Caltrans District 8 Director Raymond Wolfe. “The events that unfolded this past weekend were unacceptable and avoidable if appropriate decisions had been made in the field,” Wolfe wrote in the letter to Bono Mack, dated Feb. 16. “This is the real tragedy and I commit to you and the public that we will institute all the necessary organizational and policy changes to ensure this will not be repeated.” [kesq.com, 2/23/12]

Communications Workers of America Criticized Bono Mack on Federal Aviation Administration’s Reauthorization

In 2011, the Communications Workers of America criticized Bono Mack for “playing politics” with the Federal Aviation Administration’s funding reauthorization bill. The union used mailers against Bono Mack after partisan wrangling over the FAA funding temporarily stopped work on the new tower at Palm Springs International Airport. Federal leaders worked out a temporary agreement that ends on Sept. 16. [Desert Sun, 9/4/11]

Received PAC Contributions from Telecommunications and Owner of Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that during the first quarter Bono Mack got $4,000 from the National Automobile Dealers Association, $2,500 apiece from California Dairies, AT&T, the Edison Electric Institute, National Emergency Medicine, Surwest Communications, Verizon, Viacom International, Time Warner Cable and the National Association of Broadcasters.

Her largest individual contributors were two $2,500 checks — one for the primary and one for the general election — from Thomas J. Bombardier of Ambulatory Surgical Centers of America in Provincetown, Mass. She also received two $2,500 contributions from builder John Fowler, also of Provincetown; $1,500 from Indian Wells Councilman Bill Powers; and $1,500 from Bobby Lundstedt of Chino Hills. [Desert Sun, 5/5/11]

Received Donations from Forbes Lists Wealthiest Individuals

In 2011, the Desert Sun reported that the Bono Mack Victory Fund had first quarter donations from the Forbes wealthiest individuals. Anne Windfohr Marion of Fort Worth, Texas, donated $10,000, Jerry Perenchio the former head of Univision and his wife, Margaret Perenchio, each gave $5,000. Michael S. Shannon of Milwaukee part of the private equity firm KSL Capital Partners gave $20,000 with his family and Greg Renker, part of Guthy-Renker Corp. and his wife, Stacey gave $20,000. [Desert Sun, 5/5/11]

81

Backed Federal Support for Rail Service in Coachella Valley

Bono Mack wrote to Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood in September 2010 urging federal support for regular rail service to and from the Coachella Valley.

Bono wrote, “The local enthusiasm is rooted in an understanding that additional trains will generate economic interest in the area and lead to transit-oriented and environmentally prudent land uses.” [Editorial, Desert Sun, 2/27/11]

Criticized for Voting to Fund Second J-35 Strike Fighter Engine

In February 2011, Bono Mack was criticized by taxpayer groups for voting to fund a, alternate engine for the new J-35 strike fighter.

Bono Mack said she “deferred” to House Armed Services Committee chair’s opinion. [Gannett News Service, 2/18/11]

Wrote Letter Urging Federal Support for Amtrak Train from Indio to LA

In 2011, Bono Mack expressed support for a daily Amtrak train between Indio and Los Angeles. She wrote to the Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood in September urging federal support of regular rail service to and from the Coachella Valley. She said, “The local enthusiasm is rooted in an understanding that additional trains will generate economic interest in the area and lead to transit-oriented and environmentally prudent land uses.”

The train was not yet built in part because the cost could be up to $700 million, however, Obama Announced his goal to give 80 percent of Americans access to high-speed rail within five years. [Editorial, Desert Sun, 2/27/11]

Travel

Was Part of U.S. Delegation Attending Summit in Columbia

In April 2012, Bono Mack was part of a U.S. delegation attending the three-day Summit of the Americas in Cartagena, Colombia. Bono Mack’s office said she would discuss trade opportunities and the war on drugs. [Blog, Desert Sun, 4/13/12]

Women Issues

Bono Mack and Her Husband Received Nearly $50,000 in Donations from Hooters

In 2012, it was reported that Bono Mack and her husband received nearly $50,000 in donations from Hooters. [Blog, Politico, 3/27/12]

Romney Enlisted Bono Mack’s Help to Attack Obama on Women’s Issues

82

In 2012, Romney enlisted Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA) and Mary Bono Mack (R-CA) to attack President Obama’s record on women’s issues, despite the fact that both had voted against two signature Obama administration efforts designed to fight pay discrimination against women. [Think Progress, 4/12/12]

Defended Romney Against Anti-Women Attacks Despite Voting Against Lilly Ledbetter Act

In 2012, Bono Mack defended Romney against attacks that he was anti-women, when she voted against the Lilly Ledbetter act. Raul Ruiz said “She has consistently voted against access and affordability for healthcare for women. ... Women are facing hardships of historic proportions, and Rep. Mary Bono Mack’s votes are making it worse.” [Desert Sun, 4/14/12]

83