The Source is hopeful that the Missouri University Curators have a few questions for former Sprint CEO Gary Forsee before he is chosen President of the University of Missouri system. While others are concerned by the thought of a businessman heading a university, The Source actually thinks a businessman would be a good choice. Our concern with Forsee is, appropriately, more political.
Like it or not the head of a university system, especially the University of Missouri system at this point in time, is in a sensitive political situation. The president will have a say in how taxpayer dollars are spent, including decisions about construction, curriculum and research. But what do we know about Forsee’s politics? With a few exceptions he has been fairly quiet about his political beliefs. The only place to look for a clue is his contribution history.
While Forsee (and his wife) have tried to spread money around to politicians in both parties, it turns out he has given significant levels to local and national Democrats over the past few years. A quick search shows dozens of donations to local Democrats including Dennis Moore, Emmanuel Cleaver, and of course, Kay Barnes’ current congressional bid. In addition to those, Sherry Forsee supported ex-congresswoman Karen McCarthy. Nationally the Forsees have contributed to Democrats such as Bill Clinton, Joe Biden, Mark Pryor, Edward Markey, Daniel Akaka, Jim Moran, Max Cleland and others. Businessmen supporting incumbents is nothing new to politics, however, supporting challengers or giving to only one party is. Recently Forsee has been doing both. Significantly, while at Bell South, prior to his recent Sprint tenure, almost all Forsee’s contributions went to Democrats. In all, The Source counted at least $15,000 in contributions to congressional and other national Democrats.
Locally, Forsee has a similar record. The Forsees contributed over a thousand dollars to each of Governor Blunt’s potential opponents in 2004, Claire McCaskill and Bob Holden.
While Forsee’s contributions alone don’t tell us his politics, they are the best sign we have to date. Hopefully we will learn more before any potential appointment.
Amazing! Just amazing! Look at the bloke's record at Sprint/Nextel, would anyone seriously want this fellow running their business?
Posted by: Boatswain Mate | November 26, 2007 at 08:20 AM