Health lobby bolsters key players

USA Today reports:

In the first six months of the year, health care interests donated $19.7 million to all federal lawmakers. More than 40% — $8.1 million — went to the campaign and political action committees of lawmakers on the five House and Senate committees that are working on health care.

Craig Holman, of the watchdog group Public Citizen, said the giving allows health care lobbyists "to get one-on-one time with officeholders" as lawmakers craft legislation.

Grassley saw his health care industry donations soar this year — from $53,200 during the first three months of the year to $125,800 during the second quarter. So far this year, he is the top GOP recipient of health care industry donations in the Senate.

Grassley "accepts campaign donations that are legal and come with no strings attached," spokeswoman Jill Kozeny said.

A regulated industry needs to pay "tribute" to its' bosses.