AARP Calls Entenza Campaign Out

Just when you think nothing more could go wrong for Matt Entenza, we're proven wrong. Now the AARP hs called out Entenza for something in a recent statement to the press. Here's Entenza's initial statement:
"Despite the fact that AARP is reporting that United Health Group has issued a report, based on an independent, internal investigation, unequivocally stating that my wife, Lois Quam, has never had anything to do with granting stock options or setting compensation policy, my opponent and the State GOP leadership, continue to insinuate otherwise."
Here's AARP spokesman Mark Kitchens' response:
In no way, and at no time, did AARP issue a report, receive a UnitedHealth Group report, or conduct an investigation relating to Lois Quam or the granting of stock options or setting of compensation policy by UnitedHealth Group. This fact was communicated to Matt Entenza's campaign immediately upon AARP learning of the false Entenza statement.

All parties contacted by AARP were apologetic and recognized the error in Matt Entenza's campaign statement to the press on July 12. AARP asked for and received: 1) a copy of a revised statement omitting the incorrect assertion; 2) a written personal apology from the campaign; and 3) an assurance that due diligence would be done to ensure that members of the press were reporting based on facts and not on the incorrect statement issued by the Entenza campaign.

AARP has a long history of non-partisanship and does not support or oppose candidates for office or political parties. As it does with all political parties, candidates and incumbents during an election cycle, it asks that the Entenza campaign cease using AARP's name in any manner.

Followed by Entenza Campaign Manager John Van Henke:
Mark Kitchens

AARP

601 E St NW

Washington DC 20049

July 13, 2006

Dear Mr Kitchens,

Attached, please find a revised and reissued press statement from Matt Entenza. Hard copies will follow.

I apologize for suggesting that AARP had issued a report regarding United Health Group. It was certainly not my intent and I regret any such inference.

I have taken steps to correct this perception among the reporters covering this story, including providing them with a revised statement.

Again, please accept my apology.

Best regards,

John Van Hecke

Campaign Manager

Minnesotans for Matt

651-523-0912

www.entenza.com
The biggest question I have is this: How does Mr. Entenza explain citing a non-existent study while attacking Republicans? It seems to me that this is proof that Mr. Entenza is willing to say anything in attacking his political enemies.

Look at how detailed Mr. Entenza's claim is:
AARP is reporting that United Health Group has issued a report, based on an independent, internal investigation, unequivocally stating that my wife, Lois Quam, has never had anything to do with granting stock options or setting compensation policy...
That's both specific and autoritative-sounding. When someone says that a report unequivocally states something, it's meant to convey a verifiable fact. Clearly, that isn't the case here.

It's time for Mr. Entenza to fold up his tent and retire to private life. I refuse to believe that Minnesotans of any political persuasion want a man given to this extent of lying serving as our state's top law enforcement official.



Posted Friday, July 14, 2006 4:59 PM

June 2006 Posts

No comments.

Popular posts from this blog

March 21-24, 2016

October 31, 2007

January 19-20, 2012