GOP Senators Fight Contractor Disclosure Order

Republican senators aren’t pleased about an executive order planned by President Barack Obama that would make federal contractors reveal their political contributions as a condition of doing business with the government. And 27 GOP senators, including Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, have sent a letter to Obama detailing their opposition, The Hill reports.

Mitch McConnell

"Supposedly to advance the goal of keeping politics out of the contracting process, the draft EO [executive order] would make political considerations a part of every federal contract offer," the letter reads. "We urge you not to issue the draft EO."

Contractors would have to provide information about activities "protected by the First Amendment," including political contributions from third parties, the senators write.

"No White House should be able to review your political party affiliation or the causes you support before deciding if you are worthy of a government contract," the letter adds.