Want a Government Contract? Rumored Rule Changes May Require Political Donation Disclosure for Contractors

U.S. President Barack Obama is considering an executive order to mandate that all companies seeking government contracts first disclose any and all political donations. The rules would cover any donations made within two years of the contract application. The White House has advanced the argument that taxpayers have the right to know when contractors seeking government money are influencing the political process. Republicans aren't in agreement with the idea. "Let me be clear: No White House should be able to review your political party affiliation before deciding if you're worthy of a government contract," said Mitch McConnell, Republican Senate Minority Leader. Obama spokesman Jay Carney argued that Obama has a philosophical reason for the new rules. "(Obama's) goal is transparency and accountability. That's the responsible thing to do when you're handling taxpayer dollars." Carney said.