PBS : Trade Secrets : Money and Politics

Since 1980, Federal Election Commission (FEC) records show that the chemical industry has poured ever-increasing sums into American politics. According to the Center for Responsive Politics (CRP), the chemical industry has contributed at least $117 million in the past two decades, and since 1990 has consistently ranked in the top half of industries making contributions. Chemical industry funds have helped to elect Senators, congressmen and Presidents and to "improve access to members," as the chemical industry documents make clear. Federal law regulates direct contributions to federal candidates, but loopholes in the law mean that larger, unregulated sums flow into federal elections from chemical corporations as well as from a complex network of affiliated individuals, associations and institutions.

Credit: Except where otherwise noted, all information and figures provided by the Center for Responsive Politics (CRP). This non-partisan, non-profit research group tracks money in politics, and its effect on elections and public policy.