Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Republican Point Man on Tobacco
See also: Government Time Line | Interview Excerpt | The McCain Bill
"I don't think there's any doubt that the influence of the tobacco industry here in Congress was a compelling argument for campaign finance reform. And they did have significant influence. I would also argue that if it had not been for the agreement negotiated with the attorney's generals, then we probably would not be where we are in attempting to reach some kind of overall settlement."
Who?
Senator McCain was chosen as the Republican leader on the tobacco issue. McCain has proposed legislation that would require tobacco companies to pay $516 billion dollars over 25 years, increase the price of cigarettes by $1.10 per pack by 2003 and give the Federal Food and Drug Administration authority to regulate nicotine as a drug. It has repeatedly been endorsed by President Clinton.
Contribution to the Deal
McCain told "Inside the Tobacco Deal" that he believes that the tobacco companies have not told the complete truth to the American people. He also believes they were trying to maximize their profits and there have been occasions when they targeted people that they shouldn't have. Nevertheless he believes that making a deal with the companies instead of bankrupting them is the best way to move forward.
Expectations
McCain wanted to be tough on Big Tobacco while still keeping them at the table. He spoke with representatives from all sides of the issue before introducing his bill in April, 1998. But his plan backfired. His bill was so tough that the industry balked and backed away. Now, the Senate is attempting to negotiate a deal that the industry will sign. He took out most of the immunity for the industry that had been in the original settlement.
Personal Information:
Senator McCain was born in the Panama Canal Zone in 1936. He was elected to the United States Senate in 1986 and reelected in 1992. He was the National Security Advisor to the Dole/Kemp presidential campaign and placed Senator Bob Dole's name in nomination for the presidency at the 1996 Republican National Convention in San Diego.
Affiliations: US Congress, Republican Party
Cards they hold (issues):
Cards: Political Power in Congress | Public Support | Access to Clinton United States Senate, Arizona, Commerce Committee, Tobacco Legislation