Center Forward is an American political action committee advocating selected policies in the United States government. The group has been heavily funded with dark money donations from the pharmaceutical industry's lobbying group.[1][2]
The organization has roots in the Blue Dog Coalition of Democrats who hold some common views with Republican counterparts. The organization’s stated mission is to promote business growth and maintain fiscal responsibility while also promoting meaningful reforms. After the Blue Dog Coalition whittled down in members, the organization was founded to promote similar ideas. Blue Dog members have noted that Center Forward could be the path towards the return of a Democratic majority.[3][4][5]
Center Forward has endorsed various politicians, including John Barrow in Georgia’s 2014 elections.[6] Center Forward reportedly spent $1 million on national television ads promoting a bipartisan approach to balancing the budget. It is chaired by former Democratic Representative Bud Cramer.[7] In April 2019, Center Forward held an event for senior Republican and Democratic Congressional staffers at the Salamander Resort and Spa, featuring health insurance industry lobbyists who are leading opposition to Medicare for All.[8]
References
- ^ Hancock, Jay (2018-07-30). "Drug Trade Group Quietly Spends 'Dark Money' To Sway Policy And Voters". Kaiser Health News. Retrieved 2021-10-03.
- ^ "Pharma lobby directed millions to conservative 'dark money' groups last year". OpenSecrets. 2018-11-16.
- ^ Kane, Paul; Blue Dog Democrats, whittled down in number, are trying to regroup; The Washington Post; January 15, 2014;
- ^ Drusch, Andrea (March 28, 2014). "Rampy, Northrop hang a shingle — Cornyn cousel heads to Abbott — K2&Co. launches policy blog — Scott Brown steering committee hosts Dubliner reception". Politico.
- ^ Castañeda, Leonardo (August 25, 2017). "Private money funds $38K in travel by San Diego House members, staff". inewsource.
- ^ Stratford, Michael; Student Loans and Political Ads; Inside Higher Ed; October 21, 2014;
- ^ Troyan, Mary Orndorff (March 23, 2012). "Former Alabama congressman Bud Cramer still in the political middle". Al.com. Retrieved January 13, 2018.
- ^ Fang, Lee (May 11, 2019). "Lobbyists Working to Undermine Medicare for All Host Congressional Staff at Luxury Resort". The Intercept.
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