CA-03: Dan Lungren wouldn't go to Pittsburgh in January

by Brian Leubitz [courtesy of Calitics - Front Page]

But you know where he would go? Hawaii. To an event hosted by the American Association of Airport Executives.  Dan Lungren, a longtime hack always looking for his next gig, currently represents the 3rd District north of Sacramento.  Lungren also thinks himself a wily fox who can avoid ethics rules that bar lobbyists from going on vacation-themed junkets. And ABC News caught on to his little scheme (h/t CapNotes). Video here

So, here's how it works. Lungren and his wife fly first class to the beautiful Kona coast of Hawaii.  Lungren gives a half-hour speech at the Hapuna Beach Prince Resort (a lovely resort that has recently been restored after some earthquake damage). He bills his Congressional campaign for the expenses, but, conveniently, then does a fundraiser at the conference. So, it's even better! He can get a free trip plus some campaign cash as a party favor! W00t!

Lungren says he would have gone to LA, but when asked if he would have attended the conference if it were in Pittsburgh, Lungren couldn't even ditch the arrogance long enough to defend himself when he said:"Do I look like I go to Pittsburgh in January?"

The worst part of all this? Quite possibly it comes from the video of Dan Lungren parading around in a swimsuit, lathering himself in suntan lotion. For the record, I support proper skincare: Always wear sunscreen when taking bribes contributions in Hawaii.