Medicare For Lobbyists

"Rep. Billy Tauzin delivered a $540 billion prescription-drug benefit for Medicare. Now, the Louisiana Republican is leaving Congress for a $2 million-a-year job in the drug industry. When it comes to exposing your principles, Rep. Tauzin makes Janet Jackson look coy," the Palm Beach Post writes. Tauzin, who chaired the House Science and Commerce Committee, pushed through the early morning passage of the Medicare bill in December. Resigning his position this month, Tauzin is now expected to become the top lobbyists for the trade group Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, a $2 million-a-year job. PhRMA played a key role in shaping the Medicare bill, spending millions in hidden PR and lobbying activities.