Political payoffs alleged in North Carolina

The Asheville Tribune ^ | ? | By Clint Parker

[Madcelt]

Investigation follows money trail and timeline of multi-million dollar transfers

In 1998 then-Attorney General Mike Easley persuaded the state General Assembly to create an independent organization, the Golden LEAF, to oversee half of the $2.3 billion dollar settlement with the tobacco industry. What Easley may have created is a multi-billion dollar political money making machine which he, as governor of the state, can control and manipulate, directing funds to the economy and paying off political contributors to his campaign.

According to its website, a court order created the Golden LEAF (Long-term Economic Advancement Foundation) in 1999 as a non-profit corporation in the consent decree resolving litigation initiated by the state Department of Justice against the tobacco industry.

The foundation receives one-half of the funds coming to North Carolina resulting from the Master Settlement Agreement and makes grants to non-profit and government agencies.

[billbears]

Oh, I realize that. I was thinking of one in particular, especially when it comes to government control of our lives....

[Madcelt]

I believe I know of whom you are referring,Believe me,its gonna get worse.

[billbears]

LOL!! You're telling me....

[timestax]

bump

[upchuck]

Thanks for the various responses to my question about Mr Easley's political leanings. This pix (post #15) pretty well nails it. LOL and thanks!!

[Constitution Day]

"Tax Hike Mike" is a RAT.

Oh yeah. Big time.

[Constitution Day]

LOL! Excellent pic.

[azhenfud]

"LOL!! Wonder what would happen if I held the sign up in #15 with a different name on it...."

Bet you'd get more than one offer....