Harris defended the special interest donations. Harris noted that unlike other politicians with leadership PACs, McCain refuses to accept unregulated soft money contributions that often total six figures from corporations, unions and individuals. The Commerce Committee is considering legislation to renew the Surface Transportation Board, which oversees the railroad industry. Other companies that have long donated to McCain or benefitted from letters he wrote on their behalf as a Senate chairman were also among the donors. McCain has said there is no connection between donations and his letters to federal agencies.
Lawmakers routinely write to federal agencies on behalf of constituents or companies.
Paxson is the head of Paxson Communications, which owns a television network and several TV stations. The senator in December sent a letter to the FCC asking the agency to rule on Paxson's request to buy a Pittsburgh television station. The Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.