Is it appropriate to reference campaign contributions your lobbying organization gave an elected official when trying to influence their vote? Apparently a representative of the Alabama Education Association (AEA – teachers union) thinks it is.

Representative Allen Farley is a supporter of the Local Control School Flexibility Act. According to AL.com, the “school flex” bill would allow local school systems more flexibility on budgets, curriculum, staffing and other issues. As with every other bill that seeks to innovate or challenge the status quo, the AEA is opposed, even though other education groups have voiced their support.

We can argue the merits of the bill later.

For now, listen to what sounds to me like David Stout, PR Manager for the AEA, reminding Rep. Farley, “I’ve called two or three times and I know you remember me trying to save you money during the campaign when you ran.” [According to Rep. Farley, he’s referencing AEA print resources the Farley campaign was given to use for the 2010 campaign]

So what do you think? Acceptable lobbying practices? Or strong arm tactics? Let us know in the comment section.

“Representative Farley, this is David Stout at AEA. Uh, I read an email you sent out that counters our viewpoint on House Bill 84. And… [?] I’ve called two or three times and I know you remember me trying to save you money during the campaign when you ran. Uh, I don’t know any nice way to say this, but you’re absolutely wrong. I don’t know who has told you the circumstances that you based your email on, but I would love to sit down with you because I know you’re the kind of fella that if you know that you have been deceived, that you’re wrong, that you would change your opinion. My cell number is 334-312-7945. I look forward to talking with you about House Bill 84. Thank you.”