Andy Winer denies knowledge of a contribution-for-action agreement
Former Navatek strategist and lobbyist
“The political contributions I discussed with Kao were understood by me to be lawful political contributions. I never participated in, witnessed, or had knowledge of any illegal political contribution, bribe, or agreement to exchange a political contribution for an appropriation, contract, or other official action.”
Source and context
Reporting
About this source
Anchor investigation reporting previously undisclosed FBI cooperation interviews, internal company emails, campaign and lobbying communications, and responses from Collins's office, the FBI, Scott Reed, Glen Mandigo, Andy Winer and Steven Loui. The article says Kao had credibility incentives and that no one working for Collins was charged.
Archived copy (opens in a new tab)Before the quotation
ProPublica described emails in which Winer discussed political contributions, congressional funding and making donations less conspicuous.
After the quotation
Winer said he stopped working with Navatek after Kao's arrest. Strategies 360 said its current ownership did not oversee Winer while he represented Navatek.
How this statement is classified
Responding to: Susan Collins knowingly participated in a pay-to-play arrangement in which Navatek campaign support was exchanged for her office's assistance obtaining federal contracts.
The label describes this statement’s response within the context above.
Why this label?
Relative to the alleged Collins–Navatek exchange, Winer denies his own knowledge, participation and advice but does not make a categorical claim about every other participant. He therefore challenges the characterization and evidentiary link rather than fully denying the case-level conduct.
- Recorded on
- Published here
- People and groups discussed
- Martin Kao
Did Susan Collins Trade Federal Contract Support for Navatek Campaign Donations?
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