About half of the U.S. state attorneys general recently traveled to France on a trip co-sponsored by a group primarily funded by various companies, some of which are currently under scrutiny from the top state lawyers.
State attorneys general serve as key figures in state governments, often leveraging their roles as platforms for greater political ambitions. For example, Vice President Kamala Harris previously held the position of California’s attorney general.
The gathering provided an opportunity for the attorneys general to share concerns, foster relationships, and strategize, as well as engage with officials from other nations. However, these trips often come with luxuries, creating avenues for lobbyists to network with public officials. Industries represented through funding have included pharmaceuticals, automotive, financial services, online gaming, and technology.
The organizers of this summer’s event claim it is “solely focused on commemorating and paying tribute to the achievements and sacrifices of those who fought in Normandy.” However, this tributes comes nearly two months after the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion, which witnessed a significant gathering of world leaders.
The Attorney General Alliance (AGA) partnered with the National Association of Attorneys General to co-host the trip. While no specific dates were provided, one attorney general indicated the event was planned for July 29 to August 3.
The trip underscores how corporate interests can gain access to critical regulatory officials through the AGA. Christopher Toth, a former executive director of the National Association of Attorneys General, highlighted a concerning trend where lobbyists fund these types of trips. “They funnel the money through AGA, insulating the AGs from criticism for accepting funds from lobbyists,” Toth stated.
Additionally, this arrangement protects the officials from backlash about using taxpayer dollars for international travel.
According to the AGA, 26 attorneys general participated in the trip. Despite the coincidence of the ongoing Olympics, the nonprofit organization stated that the sporting events were not part of the agenda. Notably, the AGA also sponsored a trip to Qatar in 2022 in connection with the FIFA World Cup, attended by some AGs.
Details about the 2024 itinerary or the specific AGs attending the French event were withheld due to security concerns. Tania Maestas, an AGA lawyer, explained that scheduling was determined by the availability of attorneys general and hotel accommodations.
Oregon’s Attorney General Ellen Rosenblum announced that she would attend an Olympic soccer game alongside the Normandy events, with ticket costs and a short vacation with her husband covered at her own expense. Other AGs either declined to attend the games or did not respond to inquiries.
Serving as the chief legal officers, state attorneys general play vital roles in consumer protection and law enforcement. They are elected in 43 states, while seven states have appointed attorneys general.
The attorney general’s role significantly transformed in the 1990s when states joined forces to hold the tobacco industry accountable for the health risks of smoking. This collaboration opened pathways for other major multi-state lawsuits concerning various consumer protection issues, including cases involving opioids and defective automotive components.
Further developments have led major law firms to establish divisions dedicated to representing corporations facing scrutiny from attorney generals, frequently employing former AGs or their deputies.
Originally known as the Conference of Western Attorneys General, the AGA has expanded its focus beyond regional concerns to encompass a broader spectrum of issues since its nationwide formation in 2019.
Recent tax filings revealed that the organization collected and spent around $10 million between July 2022 and June 2023, with over $6 million allocated to travel, conferences, and events. Sponsorship revenue constituted a significant portion of funding.
Despite not detailing individual donors in tax filings, a 2023 AGA brochure indicated that corporate sponsors could secure additional attendance at events based on their financial contributions, with examples illustrating a tiered system for seating based on donation levels.
Former Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh reflected on past events, recalling only a few dinners attended, while many described discomfort mingling with lobbyists. Notably, significant sponsorship contributions have come from Amazon and Pfizer, both of which are facing scrutiny from various attorneys general.
Experts note that mingling between AGs and lobbyists yields poor optics. “The optics are often not good,” stated Colin Provost, an associate professor studying U.S. state AGs, although proving corrupt influence is complex.
In summary, the gathering of U.S. attorneys general in France raises important questions about the intersection of corporate funding and public accountability within the legal system, highlighting a continuing trend of corporate influence in state governance.
