A look at CRP's own database reveals that Rothman raised $684,950 from transportation and public sector unions over the same period, almost two-and-a-half times the money he raised from defense interests.ДЄnd then a turn to the dramatic, Boschma notes the What the author does not tell you is this: $277,850 represents 2.4% of the campaign money that Rothman raised during his 14-year career in Congress. Altogether, the defense sector donated $277,850 to Rothman during his tenure. Among his top defense contributors during his 14-year House career were BAE Systems, $42,300 General Dynamics, $35,000 Lockheed Martin, $33,500 Boeing, $32,000 Honeywell International, $28,000 and Finmeccanica SpA, $24,000. the defense industry is one Rothman knows well. Rothman served on the Defense Subcommittee of Appropriations and Boschma treads the familiar link between campaign contributions and 'legislative favors.'

Janie Boschma reports that former House Appropriations Committee member Steve Rothman will join a Newark law firm that lobbies on behalf of the defense industry.Д«oschma employs the 'revolving door' metaphor to highlight Rothman's behavior as particularly objectionable. When the facts 'confirm' the narrative why bother with context?Д¬ase in point: a story published last week by the Center for Responsive Politics. Media coverage of politics-but especially earmarks-fails to provide sufficient context for readers more often than not.

Earmark coverage fits within that narrative. The assumption is that member of Congress are self-interested, greedy, obsessed with reelection and usually corrupt.

Make your own moon cheese