Democrats Demand Inquiry into Gingrich's $4 Million Book Deal with Murdoch's Empire

Strategic Insights -

Democrats, led by Representative David E. Bonior, have called for an independent inquiry into a $4 million book deal between Representative Newt Gingrich and HarperCollins, a publisher owned by Rupert Murdoch's empire. The deal has raised questions about potential influence peddling and conflict of interest, as Fox, a network owned by Murdoch, is currently fighting a regulatory battle against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Gingrich's spokesman, Tony Blankley, has countered that the book deal adheres to House ethics guidelines and that Democrats should focus on facts rather than "fluffery."

Key Takeaways:

  • The book deal between Gingrich and HarperCollins is worth at least $4 million, with a potential profit of $4.1 million if the books sell extremely well.
  • The deal has raised questions about potential influence peddling and conflict of interest, as Fox is currently fighting a regulatory battle against the FCC.
  • Gingrich's spokesman, Tony Blankley, has challenged Democrats to present evidence of any wrongdoing, accusing them of engaging in "character assassination."
  • Representative David E. Bonior has long been demanding an investigation into Gingrich's ethics, citing his involvement in a privately financed conservative venture called GOPAC and his stewardship of a fundraising effort.
  • Gingrich's deal with HarperCollins is not the first time he has been involved in book deals; he has previously written two books and sold journals of the first Congress.
  • At least 26 of the 100 senators serving in 1989 were published authors, according to a 1989 wire service report.
  • Gingrich has a history of attacking Democratic ethics, including his role in the resignation of Speaker Jim Wright in the late 1980s.

Statistics:

  • The book deal between Gingrich and HarperCollins is worth at least $4 million.
  • An official of a rival publishing firm estimates the fee at a minimum of $4.1 million, with a potential profit of $1.1 million.
  • At least 26 of the 100 senators serving in 1989 were published authors.
  • Gingrich's book deal has raised questions about potential influence peddling and conflict of interest, as Fox is currently fighting a regulatory battle against the FCC.

Sources:

  • Associated Press (uncredited)
  • New York Times (uncredited)
  • Time Magazine (uncredited)
  • Wire service report, 1989 (uncredited)
  • New York Post (uncredited)