With GOP Presidential debates in full swing, it’s important to learn which candidates are waxing politic, and which actually practice what they preach. When it comes to charity, voters are curious to learn if candidates can put their money where their mouths are.
Michelle Bachman has reminded viewers in each debate thus far about her charitable good deeds. Say it with me: “I’ve got 5 kids and twenty three foster kids.” If you’ve tuned in at all, you’ve heard her shamelessly plug her parenting abilities. Apart from this feat, does she donate to charitable causes? The answer is yes. Bachman has been known to donate to various charities, all which share her conservative religious outlook.
What about the other Tea Partiers? Rick Perry has been getting his fair share of media attention (both positive and negative) for claiming to do things he just hasn’t done. Charity is no exception. Perry has donated very little money to any charitable foundations in the recent past, including those run by family members or friends. Ouch. The native Texan might want to work on that if he hopes to improve his future in the polls.
Ron Paul is known for being both the Libertarian nominee, and a Constitutionalist Tea Party member. Before running for office, Paul worked for many years as an OBGYN. As a doctor, he refused to accept Medicaid and Medicare payments, but decreased his costs so that women could afford to pay out of pocket. In short, Paul practices what he preaches, even if no one else would.
Both Herman Cain and Mitt Romney found success in business before choosing to pursue careers in politics. Although they’ve both recently donated more money to campaign trails and political causes, they are both known for being generous with their charitable donations. John Huntsman, the former Utah governor has a very strong record of giving back. He frequently donates both his time and money to causes and individuals in Utah.
In a past life, Newt Gingrich pushed for charitable donations to replace welfare programs. However, past and present, Gingrich doesn’t always walk the walk when it comes to the “good cause.”
In true Anderson Cooper form, “keeping them honest” is part of learning the truth about who you want as the next Republican candidate for President of the United States. If you want your Presidential nominee to give back, think twice before voting for some of these candidates.