Rep. Scott Tipton (R-CO) relies on campaign contributions from some of the same oil and gas companies that he has a financial stake in.
During the first three months of 2012, Tipton raised $31,600 a week, relying heavily on large campaign and corporate contributions. Public Campaign reports that one-third of Tipton’s first quarter fundraising comes from corporate PACs and party committees, while only 14 percent comes from small donors of less than $200.
His backers include companies with some of the deepest pockets in the world, such as the oil giants ExxonMobil (which donated $5,000), Chevron ($3,000), Koch Industries ($3,000), and BP ($1,000). He has also taken thousands from coal companies, like Arch Coal ($2,000) and Oxbow Carbon ($1,000).
Tipton’s financial disclosure forms show he owns stakes in Exxon, Royal Dutch Shell, and BP.
Just last week, the congressman, who has been a vocal proponent of oil interests on the Hill, sponsored legislation requiring the Interior Department to develop a pro-oil drilling plan for public lands every four years.
Tipton, a freshman flushed into office in 2010 wave, is facing a tough reelection battle this year from state Rep. Sal Pace (D) in a race that is likely to attract national attention.