>According to Common Cause, Smoke and Mirrors, page,
>
>in the ten years to 31 Dec 1995 Hastert received in PAC declared
>contributions from tobacco companies
>
>$26,700,
In 10 years? That's not even pocket change by DC standards, unless there are 3 zeros missing, which seems incredible.
Apropos money in U.S. politics, the lead item from the January Harper's Index:
"Estimated amount a major party U.S. presidential candidate must raise per hour to become a nominee: $2,466."
Doug