Two politicians defend taking Apple money

According to the Detroit Free Press, Matt Gillard and house Speaker Andy Dillon were paid by Apple to visit California to have the merits of the iPod explained to them.

Apparently the two democrats were so impressed with the presentation that they came back and recommended that $36 million of state money be shelled out give school kids an iPod.

It is worthwhile pointing out that the State is facing a budget crisis at the moment and needs to find $600 million.

Dillon has defended the trip saying he was "one of several lawmakers" to take up Apple's invite although he didn't name names.

Gillard said that the lawmakers spent more time on non-Apple business during the trip. Apparently they were discussing wine distribution and Michigan business taxes, which you need to go to California to do.

They claim such junkets were considered fair when the Republicans did them and now that the Democrats were in power they should be allowed too.

A spokesRepublican pointed out that while it was true they did such junkets, they didn't come back and immediately decide to buy $36 million worth of Apple products. They probably waited awhile before suggesting it, or bought non-Apple products instead. µ

L'INQ
Detroit Free Press