How Much is KO Public Affairs Making From Question 7?
The Maryland State Ethics Commission posted the lobbying disclosures for August’s special session to expand gambling in Maryland.
The Baltimore Sun reported that $3.6 million was spent by casino and labor interests to sway legislators. The Washington Building and Construction Trades Council, a group favoring a sixth casino at National Harbor, spent the most by far $2.7 million.
However, what we don’t know is how much KO Public Affairs, the politically connected firm representing the council and MGM Resorts, had made from their efforts.
Steve Kearney, Governor O’Malley’s former communications chief, and Damien O’Doherty a top aide to former Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith, founded KO Public Affairs. They are also the founders of the self described straight news site Center Maryland, along with Chair of the Maryland Economic Development Corporation businessman Martin Knott and former Baltimore Sun reporter Howard Libit.
Remember during the special session, a KO Public Affairs employee with a Center Maryland media credential was caught on the floor of the Senate during the gambling debate.
Nice how KO can get away with lobbying without having to disclose.
