State AGs' Posh France Trip Raises Ethical Questions

About half of U.S. state attorneys general traveled to France on a trip sponsored by companies under their scrutiny. The event, co-organized by the Attorney General Alliance, sparked concerns about the influence of corporate lobbyists. The trip's stated purpose was to honor D-Day achievements, but its timing and sponsorship raised eyebrows.

About half of U.S. state attorneys general were part of a France trip, co-organized and funded primarily by companies some of which they are investigating. This event has raised ethical questions about the influence of corporate lobbyists on top state legal officials.

Attorneys general are highly visible officials who can transition to prominent roles on the global stage, exemplified by Vice President Kamala Harris who previously held the position in California. These trips provide a platform for AGs to network and exchange ideas but are also often notable for the participation of corporate lobbyists.

The trip was organized to commemorate D-Day, occurring nearly two months after its 80th anniversary. The event highlights how lobbyists can gain access to regulators. Despite assurances it was focused on historical commemoration, some AGs declined to comment about the trip's connection to the Olympics. Oregon AG Ellen Rosenblum confirmed her attendance at an Olympic soccer game, paid out of her pocket for personal days in France.

Past trips sponsored by the AGA included significant contributions from various industries including pharmaceuticals and tech companies, raising concern about the closeness between regulators and the industries they regulate. AGA's sponsorship model, which offers more seats to higher contributors, added fuel to the debate about ethical boundaries in such interactions.

(With inputs from agencies.)