SACRAMENTO — To pay for a coming trade mission to China, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's political allies are raising tens of thousands of dollars from businesses whose names are largely being concealed.
In addition, at least two of the three public relations firms playing a role in the visit have political ties to Schwarzenegger. One has a West Coast affiliate co-owned by the governor's chief fundraiser.
Those arranging the weeklong trip, which will follow the special election next month, are crafting an itinerary that potentially offers the traveling business delegation exclusive access to Chinese officials and a private reception with Schwarzenegger. The list of companies joining him is not yet complete.
Schwarzenegger and his supporters want donations to two tax-exempt groups that have championed his interests, and to a government fund meant to boost overseas trade. The money will help cover expenses for the governor's tour of Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
The administration says the fundraising effort saves taxpayers money, but experts in public ethics question the governor's practice and the access it affords private interests.
When private money finances government activity, elected officials can be compromised, they said. And voters cannot hold officials accountable if they can't learn where all the money came from and what donors may receive in return, they added.
Some of the companies that have been approached are being asked to give $50,000 to a tax-exempt group called the California Protocol Foundation, according to people associated with the firms. The foundation's board members include the president of the California Chamber of Commerce, the state's leading business lobbyist.
The foundation's purpose is to reduce government costs through private contributions, and it will be the main source of money for the China trip, according to a Schwarzenegger aide involved in the planning. The group does not release names of its donors, nor is it required by law to do so.
Officials of Chevron said the oil and gas company has given $75,000 to the foundation in the last two years and will join the governor in China. The company also has given $296,000 to Schwarzenegger's campaign funds, state records show.
Jack Coffey, director of state government affairs for Chevron, said the corporation gave to the nonprofit group because "we think the state needs to be a player in Asian trade matters."
