Seals' Ethics are in Question

At a recent appearance at Hersey high school before students, Dan Seals was specifically asked if he would return campaign contributions from Rep. Charlie Rangel of New York, his top donor, who is under a serious ethical cloud. Seals just brushed off the question and said no. Listen for yourself, audio below. Multiple charges of illegal activity are serious enough, according to The Hill, that the House Ethics Committee has launched an official investigation. Rangel's home town paper, the NY Times, has called on him to resign as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, as has his fellow Democrat, Rep. Mark Udall of Colorado.

Other recipients of Rangel campaign contributions have returned the money, but not Dan Seals, who to date has received more than $55,000 in known contributions.

Review of illegal activities:

7/11/08: "For Rangel, Four Rent-Stabilized Apartments," New York Times

7/15/08: "Rangel's Pet Cause Bears His Own Name," Washington Post

9/5/08: "Rangel Failed to Report $75,000 in Income," New York Times

9/5/08: "Interest Was Waived for Rangel on Loan for Villa," New York Times

9/14/08: "Defied Rule on Lobby $$ for Vacation," New York Post

9/18/08: "Rangel's illegal free parking may be new tax woe," New York Post

Contributions:

9/30/06: $2,000 from Rangel for Congress

9/30/06: $5,000 from Rangel's "National Leadership PAC"

4/30/08: $2,000 from Rangel for Congress

4/30/08: $5,000 from Rangel's "National Leadership PAC"

8/20/08: $41,217.45 from Rangel Victory Fund

Total Contributions: $55,217.45

Dan Seals is not in Congress, but already his ethics are in question. Quite the role model for our youth, with his flippant answer. Listen: Transcript:

Question: Congressman Charlie Rangel of New York has been caught cheating on his taxes, misusing government property for personal and political purposes, and abusing his influence to rent four luxury apartments at half the going rate. He is now the subject of a Congressional ethics probe. US Senate Candidate Mark Beich from Alaska and David Loebsack from Iowa, as well as the Democratic National Committee have returned donations from Rangel. It is my understanding that you have received over $50,000 from him and his committees.

Seals: Wow I hope so, wow.

Question: Do you plan on returning his money, yes or no?

Seals: No. I haven't given any thought to that. Because he has been accused of things that you have mentioned, but he's been kept in his spot. The Washington Post actually recommended that he stay in his spot until he has been found guilty. As I understand it, he has been cooperating with everyone to make sure the truth comes out. So until he is found guilty I appreciate his support.