Jon Tester, U.S. Senator

Americans for Taxpayer Reform calls for junior senator to get off Appropriations Committee

After years of abusing his role on the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee, a conservative group says it’s finally time Sen. Conrad Burns step down.

A new press release from Americans for Taxpayer Reform names Burns specifically for the failures of the committee.

Sen. Burns, who has been on the Appropriations Committee for 13 years, is now under federal criminal investigation for using his clout on the committee to benefit clients of convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff, one of Burns’ biggest donors.

“When groups like Americans for Taxpayer Reform say Sen. Burns has worn out his welcome, he ought to listen up,” said Matt McKenna, a Tester spokesman. “It’s clear he’s been using his position as an auction block for Washington lobbyists. Now, even activists who back Burns agree–it’s time for a change.”

While Burns worries how he’ll keep his seat at the table, his opponent is already making plans to bring responsibility, honesty and integrity to the Appropriations Committee.

Last week Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., promised Big Sandy farmer Jon Tester a seat on the committee “as soon as possible” if elected to the Senate. Tester said he will use his position on the committee to make sure Montana gets the infrastructure funding it needs while ensuring all funding projects undergo full public scrutiny.

Posted on Wednesday, October 25th, 2006 at 1:46 pm.