On 09 Apr 2004 15:57:38 GMT, Gould 0738 wrote:




If I belonged to a union, (don't-and haven't for at least 25 years), I
would
personally feel the same way as I do about some of the professional
organizations I belong to
endorsing and financially supporting candidates. I don't join an
association to
be told how to vote, I don't want BOAT/US telling me how to vote, and I
remain
independent from political parties for the same reason.

Would you think it a little strange if the board of directors at your
yacht
club, country club, or what not voted to send several thousand dollars
(or
more) to the campaign of a particular politician? The directors are free
to
send their own personal money, as are the individual members, to the
candidate
of their choice.


Spending money is one thing -- but what about saying "Mr. Smith is a good
guy, and we think he will work in our best interests" in their newsletter?


--
Jim