Reply #4: Ex-state aides use old ties to make, raise cash

[MelissaB]

Article published Sunday, July 10, 2005

OHIO POLITICS

Ex-state aides use old ties to make, raise cash
Lobbyists steered funds to Bush while they enriched themselves

By JAMES DREW
and STEVE EDER
BLADE STAFF WRITERS

...snip

"Brian Hicks has a reputation of being one of the smartest people in and out of government," Mr. Weaver said. "His intelligence and hard work have paid off for him. I've seen it up close. I know how good he can be. And his clients do too."

On his firm's Web site, Mr. Hicks bills himself as "the most powerful unelected official in Ohio." His company boasts "an extensive level network of contacts in Ohio, Washington, D.C., and throughout the country."

"Hicks Partners will ensure your voice is heard at the highest levels of government," the Web site says.

The fact that Hicks Partners can guarantee its clients that it has close ties to the most influential people in politics is precisely the problem with the system, Senator Dann said.

More: http://toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050710/NEWS24/507100451

Discussion about this and the Bush connection: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=203x383074