Microsoft, which the Justice Department is suing for antitrust violations. Rupert Murdoch, chairman of News Corp, who supports legislation to let television networks own more stations. Office of the Commissioner of Major League Baseball, which opposes legislation to block use of tax-exempt bonds to finance new sports facilities. Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association, which opposes legislation to add prescription drug benefits to Medicare. Of course, it s the right of the companies under the First Amendment s freedom of expression guarantees to express their support for Bush and their patriotism for the next president through their wallets, but the connections between the inaugural festivities are symbolic of the connections this Big Business administration will have throughout its four years.
Money is a medium for trade.
As our capitol city inevitably becomes the hotbed of partisan bickering it has always been, this inauguration proves that we should tune out the loud, catchphrased hooplah and strain to hear the sweet million-dollar somethings Corporate America is whispering into the new administration s ear.