New NRSC ad repeats debunked claims about Cortez Masto
As Attorney General, Cortez Masto traveled to policy conferences to combat human trafficking and transnational crime
For Immediate Release
September 19, 2016
Las Vegas, NV – Congressman Heck and his Washington allies continued their campaign of lies today with their latest ad attacking Catherine Cortez Masto’s record. The ad repeats debunked claims about Cortez Masto’s record as Attorney General. As Nevada’s Attorney General, Cortez Masto traveled to policy conferences to help combat human trafficking, drug trafficking, and transnational crime. In contrast, Congressman Heck has time and again voted in Washington to protect perks for members of Congress.
“Congressman Heck and his allies have lied so much about Catherine Cortez Masto that Pinocchio should ask them for tips,” said Zach Hudson, spokesperson for Catherine Cortez Masto for Senate. “While Congressman Heck was voting in Washington to allow members of Congress to fly on private jets on the taxpayers’ dime, Catherine Cortez Masto was focused on solving problems and protecting Nevadans from predators. This ad is nothing more than an attempt to distract Nevadans from Congressman Heck consistently voting to protect taxpayer funded perks for politicians like himself.”
See backup for the ad below:
NRSC AD “ANSWERING MACHINE”– AD PUSHBACK 9/19/16
(Phone Ringing)
ANNOUNCER: Thanks for calling Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto. Miss Masto is traveling and unavailable to take your call.
FACT: LAW ENFORCEMENT UNIONS THAT ENCOMPASS ALMOST EVERY PEACE OFFICER IN NEVADA UNANIMOUSLY ENDORSED CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO FOR SENATE…
Headline: Associated Press: “Nevada Police Unions Back Democrat Cortez Masto For Senate.” [Associated Press, 3/2/16]
Coalition Of Nevada Law Enforcement Unions Endorsed Cortez Masto For U.S. Senate. “A coalition of Nevada law enforcement unions is announcing support for Democratic Senate candidate Catherine Cortez Masto. Cortez Masto’s campaign announced endorsements Wednesday from the Nevada Association of Public Safety Officers, Peace Officers Research of Nevada, the Fraternal Order of Police and the Southern Nevada Conference of Police and Sheriffs. The latter group includes the Las Vegas Police Protective Association and organizations representing Henderson and Las Vegas police supervisors.” [Associated Press, 3/2/16]
The Law Enforcement Unions Cited Cortez Masto’s Work To Fight Human Trafficking And Support For Funding More Police Officers As Reasons For The Endorsement. “Cortez Masto’s previous job as Nevada’s attorney general involved frequent work with law enforcement. Representatives from the unions cited her initiatives to fight human trafficking and her support of funding more police hires as reasons for the endorsement.” [Associated Press, 3/2/16]
Cortez Masto Picked Up Support From Nevada Police Unions. “Former state Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto (D) picked up endorsements from the Nevada Association of Public Safety Officers, the Fraternal Order of Police, the Peace Officers Reserve of Nevada, and the Southern Nevada Conference of Police and Sheriffs Wednesday.” [National Journal, 3/3/16]
…BECAUSE THEY KNOW THAT AS ATTORNEY GENERAL, CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO FOUGHT TO KEEP NEVADANS SAFE AND BRING CRIMINALS TO JUSTICE
Fox News: Cortez Masto “Dedicated Herself To Fighting Sex Trafficking In Our State.” In February 2015, Fox News In The Morning reported, “Catherine Cortez Masto. Former Nevada Attorney General. Dedicated herself to fighting sex trafficking in our state. ‘The numbers that we’ve seen in our state, when these kids come through, 60 percent of them are our own. They’re homegrown.’ she decided it’s time to do more to hold the perpetrators accountable.” [KVVU, 2/19/15]
AG Cortez Masto Sponsored And Pushed For Legislation To Combat Child Sex Trafficking In Nevada. According to an article by Alex Pompliano of the Nevada Media Alliance, “Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto and other supports of the bill will join Sandoval as he signs AB67 into law. The bill establishes the crime of sex trafficking of children and adults, and makes victims eligible for state assistance and allows them to sue their traffickers. By doing so, the bill holds pimps accountable and protects the victims of sex trafficking. Cortez Masto, a primary proponent of the bill, says bills passed this year by the Legislature will serve as a springboard for more anti-trafficking measures in future years.” [Carson Now, 6/6/13]
Cortez Masto’s Bill Created New Tools For Law Enforcement To Stop Sex Trafficking And Gave More Recourse For Victims Of Sex Trafficking. According to a press release posted on the Mesquite Citizen website, “The bill was approved by unanimous votes of both houses of the legislature. The bill will now be sent to Governor Brian Sandoval’s for final approval. A public signing with Gov. Sandoval will take place. Background on AB 67: Changes the current pandering statute to the sex trafficking statute. The federal definition of sex trafficking will be used to increase penalties by one sentencing level. Creates law enforcement tools for racketeering, conspiracy, and wiretapping. Those convicted would have to register as a sex offender, and their assets will be seized, liquidated and provided as relief to the victims. Restitution will be mandatory with the ability to bring a civil cause of action. The prosecution will be allowed to preserve the victim’s testimony for trial.” [Mesquite Citizen, 6/3/13]
Cortez Masto Strengthened Laws To Protect Kids From Predators: “In My Office, We Actually Are The Investigators And Prosecutors. We Are The Ones Who Lure The Predators So They Are Not Preying On Our Kids.” “Masto’s work has resulted in new laws strengthening the registration and notification requirements of convicted sex offenders and preventing a person from luring someone believed to be a child. During her presentation the attorney general told the students how her office works to get the ‘bad guys’ each day. ‘It’s happening here and every community in our state. In my office, we actually are the investigators and prosecutors. We are the ones who lure the predators so they are not preying on our kids. We have laws that allow us to pretend we are the 12-year-old so that we can lure those predators. We have seen horrific cases here in Nevada and we want to make sure our kids are protected and they don’t become that next statistic,’ she said.” [Pahrump Valley Times, 3/21/14]
Cortez Masto Often Visited Schools To Discuss Internet Dangers With Children. “Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto said she often visits schools to discuss the dangers of technology, especially on the Internet, where children might trust strangers and sometimes hide activity from parents. When Cortez Masto walks into a sixth-grade classroom, she said almost all students raise their hands when asked whether they own a cell phone, belong to a social network, play video games with strangers and share photographs online. ‘This is at the sixth grade,’ she said. ‘The technology these kids use have become an extension of their being.’” [Las Vegas Sun, 8/2/10]
Headline: Las Vegas Review-Journal: “Cortez Masto’s Senate Hopes Mirror Her AG Track Record.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/30/15]
As Attorney General, Cortez Masto Visited All 17 Counties To Help Nevadans Address Domestic Violence, Sex Trafficking, Home Foreclosures, And Prescription Drug Use. “As attorney general, Cortez Masto visited all 17 counties to help Nevadans with their problems, from domestic violence and sex trafficking to home foreclosures and prescription drug abuse, which is just as prevalent in the rurals as it is in urban Las Vegas and Reno.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 4/30/15]
Cortez Masto Spent Eight Years As Attorney General Working In A Bipartisan Manner To Fight Sex Trafficking, Sex Offenders, And Protect Seniors. “After five terms in the U.S. Senate, Harry Reid is leaving behind some pretty big shoes to fill. And so far there are three candidates hoping to do that. Of course the Democratic Party wants to see that seat stay blue. The Reid Machine is fully behind Catherine Cortez Masto, who spent 8 years as our Attorney General. There she fought sex trafficking, sex offenders and to protect senior citizens. She says bipartisanship politics is the key. ‘These are all areas I have a proven record of working on in a bipartisan manner. It is about building partnerships and coalitions. That’s what we need in Washington and I have a proven record to show I can do it,’ Cortez Masto said during a recent interview.” [KTVN, 2/1/16]
Cortez Masto Said She Isn’t Concerned With Polls Or Pundits, She Wants To Talk With Nevadans About The Issues, Find Out What’s Important To Them, And Fight On Behalf Of Nevada. “Cortez Masto is not concerned about polls or pundits that call the race a toss-up. ‘Right now my focus is just on this race, it’s on getting out and talking to people about the issues,’ she said after the forum. ‘I came out early and rolled out my campaign on April 8 just for that reason. I wanted to make sure I was getting around the state, similar to what I did when I was attorney general, and continue to talk about the issues, to learn what’s important to them and the things that I want to fight for on their behalf.’” [Record-Courier, 8/14/15]
Cortez Masto: Nevada Needs A U.S. Senator Who Is Going To Work For The Best Interests Of The State. “Cortez Masto reached her term limit as attorney general last year and set her sights on another goal. ‘I have worked very hard on behalf of the state — on behalf of people, women, children, seniors — fighting on their behalf for businesses so that they can continue to grow. And that’s what we need in this state, somebody who is going to work on behalf of the best interests of this state as a United States senator.’” [Record-Courier, 8/14/15]
ANNOUNCER: Please leave a message and when she gets back from living it up with lobbyists in Mexico, Switzerland, Napa Valley, Hawaii, or wherever she is, we’ll follow up. (Beep)
TEXT: Catherine Cortez Masto Taxpayer And Special Interest Trips…Mexico…Switzerland…Napa Valley…Hawaii
THE TRUTH: CORTEZ MASTO RELATIONSHIPS WITH HER FELLOW ATTORNEYS GENERAL HELPED FIGHT ORGANIZED CRIME, SEX TRAFFICKING, AND SERVE JUSTICE TO CRIMINALS WHO FLED THE LAW
Steve Sebelius: I Saw Catherine Cortez Masto Give An Extensive Briefing At One Of These Conferences And Plenty Of Law Enforcement Work Was Accomplished. “Despite the exotic location, there was plenty of work accomplished, including an extensive briefing from Cortez Masto on the fight against child sex trafficking.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, Steve Sebelius column, 8/26/16]
CORTEZ MASTO WORKED WITH MEXICAN COUNTERPARTS TO FIGHT TRANSNATIONAL ORGANIZED CRIME
AG Cortez Masto Announced Nevada And Mexican States Signed Agreement To Share Intelligence And Investigative Techniques To Fight Drug Dealing, Money Laundering, And Human Trafficking. “The attorneys general from Nevada and two Mexican states have signed an agreement to share intelligence and investigative techniques. Mexican state attorneys general Rommel Manjarrez from Baja California and Patricia Gonzalez from Chihuahua pledged with Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto on Monday in Las Vegas to target cross-border drug dealing, money laundering and human trafficking. ‘The state I come from is a border state. We have drug cartels, and we’re trying to control that situation,’ Gonzalez said through an interpreter. ‘My state is trying with all its efforts to work with the government and get it under the control.’ Chihuahua and Baja have signed similar agreements with New Mexico and Oregon, the officials said. A plan to sign the information-sharing agreement between Nevada and the two Mexico states was postponed Nov. 7 after a rash of killings in Baja California.” [Associated Press, 12/16/08]
· The Agreement Came From CWAG & NAAG Effort Develop Rule Of Law Internationally And Allowed For Sharing Information About Criminal Fugitives. “Nevada does not border Mexico, but authorities say smuggled methamphetamine and other drugs reach the state. Cortez Masto said money also is laundered in Las Vegas and returned to Mexico. ‘There is a nexus with Nevada,’ she said. The agreement will let Nevada law enforcers teach Mexican police how to conduct forensic investigations, collect evidence and prosecute criminal cases, officials said. The two Mexican states will agree to share information about criminal fugitives who might be in the United States, create a task force to combat human trafficking, and guarantee the presence of Spanish and English interpreters when needed. The alliance grew from an effort by the Conference of Western Attorneys General, the National Association of Attorneys General and the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Rule of Law project.” [Associated Press, 12/16/08]
· AG Cortez Masto Also Cited Crime-Fighting Pledge From Mexican President Felipe Calderon After 6-Year-Old Las Vegas Boy Was Abducted. “Cortez Masto on Monday also cited a crime-fighting pledge by Mexican President Felipe Calderon, and said talks with the Mexican states began before a 6-year-old Las Vegas boy was abducted Oct. 15. Las Vegas police identified the boy’ kidnappers as ‘Mexican nationals’ and methamphetamine traffickers trying to collect a drug debt from the boy’s grandfather, Clemens Fred Tinnemeyer. Tinnemeyer was arrested in California and is being held in federal custody in Las Vegas pending a March 2 hearing in U.S. District Court. Police are still looking for the kidnappers.” [Associated Press, 12/16/08]
Fox Local News: “Nevada’s Attorney General Is Going To Help In The Fight Against International Organized Crime.” In December 2008, Fox News at 10pm reported, “Nevada’s attorney general is going to help in the fight against international organized crime. Catherine Cortez Masto met her counterparts from Baja California and Mexico today at the grant sawyer building. They discussed details of the new agreement.. Which includes updating Mexico’s criminal investigation process.” [KVVU, 12/15/08]
CORTEZ MASTO RELATIONSHIPS HELPED SEEK ASSISTANCE TO CAPTURE ALLEGED NEVADA MURDERER IN MEXICO
Headline: Las Vegas Review-Journal: “Masto Says Trip To Mexico To Help Battle Transnational Organized Crime.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/26/14]
Headline: Elko Daily Free Press: “Alleged Killer Estrada-Puentes Extradited To Nevada.” [Elko Daily Free Press, 10/23/15]
Cortez Masto: These Relationships Have Allowed Nevada To Seek Assistance From Mexico To Find Eduardo Estrada, Who Is Alleged To Have Killed His Estranged Wife, Stephanie Gonzalez Estrada, In Elko In 2011. “Those relationships now extend to federal Attorney General Jesús Murillo Karam as well after a positive meeting with him during the trip, Masto said Wednesday after returning to Las Vegas. These relationships have allowed Masto to seek assistance from the attorney general of Jalisco as well as Karam to try to find Eduardo Estrada, who is alleged to have killed his estranged wife, Stephanie Gonzalez Estrada, in Elko in 2011. Estrada has family in Jalisco and is believed to be residing there. The purpose of the yearly trip by the Conference of Western Attorneys General was to enhance efforts to combat crime across the U.S.-Mexico border, focusing on drug and human trafficking and cybercrime, as well as money laundering.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 3/26/14]
Elko Justice Court Charged Eduardo Estrada With Murdering His Wife And He Fled To Mexico To Avoid Prosecution. “Elko Police Chief Ben Reed said Estrada was arrested by local authorities Sunday near the city of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. He was apparently involved in a fight, which led to the arrest, but Elko police do not have more details, Reed said. Local law enforcement received news of Estrada’s arrest at about 9 p.m. Sunday. Federal authorities have him in custody, Reed said. The next step is extradition proceedings, a process that will be slow-moving, Reed said. ‘We’ve been advised already that it will be a months-long process,’ Reed said. ‘… I don’t want to speculate as to how or when. I just want to say he’s in custody.’ Elko Police Lt. Rich Genseal said extradition could take from six months to two years. Gonzalez was killed on June 25, 2011. Four days later, Estrada was charged with murder in Elko Justice Court and a state warrant was issued for his arrest. Then on July 8, 2011, a federal arrest warrant was issued by the United States District Court in Nevada. Estrada was charged with unlawful flight to avoid prosecution.” [Elko Daily Free Press, 10/27/14]
Mexican Government Granted The Extradition Of Eduardo Estrada-Puentes Back To The United States To Stand Trial For Murder After Spending A Year In Custody In Mexico. “Eduardo Estrada-Puentes, who is accused of murdering Stephanie Gonzalez, has been extradited from Mexico and is in Washoe County Jail, said Police Chief Ben Reed. ‘The Mexican Federal Government granted the extradition back to the United States to stand trial for murder,’ said Reed. Reed explained this case has spanned the local, state, national and international levels. Estrada-Puentes was brought to Reno Thursday by the FBI, before being transported to Washoe County and booked on the Elko County Warrant. Local police anticipate his transfer to Elko sometime next week, said Reed. ‘All the appropriate local authorities have been notified, and now the wheels will start to turn here locally…,’ said Reed. Estrada-Puentes is accused of killing his estranged wife, Stephanie Gonzalez, on June 25, 2011. Soon after Estrada-Puentes fled to Mexico, where, with the help of the FBI and Mexican federal authorities, he was located and spent the past year in custody in Mexico City – where he underwent extradition hearings.” [Elko Daily Free Press, 10/23/15]
Elko Authorities Charged Eduardo Estrada-Puentes With First Degree Murder After He Was Arrested In Mexico And Extradited Back To The United States. “In a case delayed by extradition, law enforcement confirmed that Eduardo Estrada-Puentes was transferred to the Elko County Jail Thursday afternoon. He is charged with open murder. This can include first degree murder and all lesser offenses. Estrada-Puentes, 34, is accused of strangling his estranged wife, Stephanie Gonzalez, on June 25, 2011. Soon after Estrada-Puentes fled to Mexico. With the help of the FBI and Mexican federal authorities, he was located and arrested in the State of Jalisco. Estrada-Puentes spent the past year in custody in Mexico City, where he underwent extradition hearings. Estrada-Puentes is scheduled to make his first court appearance Tuesday before Justice of the Peace Mason Simons.” [Elko Daily Free Press, 10/31/15]
CORTEZ MASTO SHARED NEVADA’S PROGRESS FIGHTING SEX TRAFFICKING AT THE UNITED NATIONS
Cortez Masto Traveled To Geneva, Switzerland To Update U.N. Committee Of Efforts To Combat Sex Trafficking And Prevent Exploitation Of Children In Nevada. “Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto will travel to Geneva, Switzerland this week to update a United nations committee on efforts to combat sex trafficking and to prevent the exploitation of children in Nevada. ‘I continue with my efforts to combat the sex trafficking of both adults and children in Nevada,’ said Masto. This address comes on the heels of AG Masto’s sex trafficking summit in Las Vegas last week. The topics of discussion at the summit included how to advance enforcement responses, enhance victim services and empower survivors.” [Comstock Chronicle, 1/18/13]
Cortez Masto Persuaded Lawmakers To Pass A New Statute Toughening Punishment For Sex Traffickers. “An attorney general can also take on a wide variety of projects. Masto sued Bank of America in 2010 over mortgage modifications, and last year she persuaded lawmakers to pass a new statute that toughens punishment for sex traffickers.” [Las Vegas Sun, 10/2/14]
Cortez Masto Bill Established Crime Of Sex Trafficking, Made Victims Eligible For State Assistance, And Allowed Victims To Sue Their Traffickers. “Nevada AG Catherine Cortez Masto has made it her priority to come down tough on sex and human traffickers. During the 2013 Legislative Session, she introduced and helped pass Assembly Bill 67, which establishes the crime of sex trafficking of children and adults, makes victims eligible for state assistance and allows them to sue their traffickers. The bill, which became effective July 1, 2013, also increases the penalties for those found guilty of human and sex trafficking.” [Laughlin Nevada Times, 2/12/14]
THE TRUTH: CORTEZ MASTO ATTENDED BIPARTISAN POLICY CONFERENCES TO SHARE CRIME FIGHTING PRACTICES AND BUILD WORKING RELATIONSHIPS WITH ATTORNEYS GENERAL
As Attorney General, Cortez Masto Attended Policy Conferences And Worked With Colleagues To Shed Light On Legal Issues Attorneys General Face. “Nevada Attorney general Catherine Cortez Masto will serve as the 2012-2013 chair for the Conference of Western Attorneys general (CWAG) following a ceremony during the annual meeting held in Anaheim, Calif. ‘It is an honor to be given the opportunity to lead the Conference of Western Attorneys general,’ said Masto. ‘I look forward to continuing my efforts with CWAG in the upcoming year and working with my colleagues to shed light on issues that we face.’ Masto, who will serve as chair through July 2013, was the 2011-2012 CWAG Vice Chair. Her role marks only the third time in the organization’s 44-year history that a Nevada attorney general has held the position. Frankie Sue Del Papa served as the most recent CWAG chair from 1994-1995.” [Nevada Attorney General press release, 7/26/12]
CWAG Is A Bipartisan Group Of Chief Legal Officers Whose Primary Function Is A Forum To Coordinate Action, Share Best Practices, Facilitate Working Relationships, And Enhance Expertise. “The Conference of Western Attorneys General (CWAG) is a bipartisan group comprised of the chief legal officers of 15 western states and three Pacific territories. […] CWAG’s primary function is to provide a forum for chief legal officers of member states and jurisdictions to cultivate knowledge, cooperate on concerns and coordinate actions which improve the quality of legal services available to members. CWAG focuses on common areas of interest to the west: water, fish and wildlife, public lands, minerals, environmental protection and Indian Law. Interest in the organization has been generated from states, countries and individuals from outside the west due to the evolution of the law on these matters and the universality of many of these issues. Since 1982 CWAG has employed its own staff to coordinate litigation, legislative efforts and information to assist western states on both regional and national levels. CWAG provides assistance to members by serving as a central clearinghouse for information and legal strategies, facilitating interstate working relationships and enhancing expertise by providing timely information.” [Conference of Western Attorneys General, Mission, Accessed 12/14/15]
REALITY: CORTEZ MASTO SPENT LESS ON OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL THAN REPUBLICAN ATTORNEYS GENERAL
Cortez Masto’s Fiscal Biennium Out-Of-State Travel Budget Averaged $17,353 During Her Two Terms As Attorney General. According to an analysis of Open Nevada, the state’s transparency website, between FY2008 and FY2015, Cortez Masto’s office spent an average of $17,353 on out-of-state travel. [Open Nevada, Office Of Attorney General Travel Budget, Accessed 12/14/15]
Republican Adam Laxalt’s Office Budgeted $21,682 For His First Biennium Budget As Attorney General For Out-Of-State Travel. According to an analysis of Open Nevada, the state’s transparency website, Adam Laxalt’s first two year fiscal budget, FY2016-FY2017, allocated $21,682 for out-of-state travel. [Open Nevada, Office Of Attorney General Travel Budget, Accessed 12/14/15]
Republican George Chanos Spent $20,524 During His Biennium Budget As Attorney General For Out-Of-State Travel. According to an analysis of Open Nevada, the state’s transparency website, Republican Attorney General George Chanos spent $20,524 on out-of-state travel during his 2 year tenure of FY2006-FY2007. [Open Nevada, Office Of Attorney General Travel Budget, Accessed 12/14/15]
REALITY: REPUBLICAN ATTORNEYS GENERAL HAVE ALSO ATTENDED SIMILAR POLICY CONFERENCES…
June 2009-December 2010: Sullivan Took $15,131 Worth Of Taxpayer-Funded Out-Of-State Travel, Including Trips To NAAG And CWAG Conferences. [Dan Sullivan Compensation and Travel Report, 2009; 2010]
2011-2014: Republican AG Pam Bondi Took $14,000 For NAAG And CWAG Trips. “She has charged Florida taxpayers nearly $14,000 since 2011 to take additional trips to meetings of the National Association of Attorneys General and the Conference of Western Attorneys General, including travel to Hawaii. Those events were also attended by dozens of lobbyists. Ms. Bondi, in a statement, said the support she had received — directly or through the Republican Attorneys General Association — had not had an impact on any of her actions as attorney general.” [New York Times, 10/28/14]
June 2009: Kelly Ayotte Was Appointed To Serve NAAG Executive Committee. In June 2009, NAAG newsletter stated: “The Association elects its officers yearly, through geographical rotation by region. Election of the four officers—president, president-elect, vice president and immediate past president—takes place at the annual NAAG Summer Meeting. The president appoints all standing and special committee chairs. Committees are charged with studying all substantive matters within their jurisdiction and recommending policy positions and other matters to the Attorneys General for action by the full Association. The Executive Committee is charged with the management of Association operations and yearly approval of a program plan of goals, objectives, and activities to guide its work. The Executive Committee comprises the four NAAG officers, four regional delegates and three presidential appointees and the chair of the NAAG Mission Foundation, which supports the work of the Association. The 2009-2010 NAAG Executive Committee consists of the following Attorneys General: […] Attorney General Kelly Ayotte (N.H.), Presidential Appointment.” [NAAGazette, 6/30/09]
…INCLUDING NEVADA’S CURRENT REPUBLICAN ATTORNEY GENERAL
June 21-24, 2014: Adam Laxalt Attended RAGA Summer Meeting In Coronado, CA. [2014 RAGA Summer Meeting Attendance List, Accessed 12/21/15]
RAGA Spent Nearly $2.5 Million To Help Adam Laxalt Defeat Ross Miller. “The Republican Attorneys General Association has pumped another $500,000 into its TV ad buy in Nevada — for a total of nearly $2.5 million — to help Adam Laxalt defeat Democrat Ross Miller in the attorney general’s race as a new internal poll shows the contest in a dead heat, a GOP official said Thursday.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 10/23/14]
ANNOUNCER: Corrupt Catherine Cortez Masto, took over 40 taxpayer and special interest paid trips but we’re the ones who got taken for a ride.
TEXT: Catherine Cortez Masto Over 40 Taxpayer And Special Interest Paid Trips
THE TRUTH: CORTEZ MASTO CUT THE ATTORNEY GENERAL BUDGET BY 30 PERCENT…
Cortez Masto Cut The Attorney General’s Office Budget By 30 Percent. According to an AP article, “Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto is doubling size of a mortgage fraud investigation team, even while the department is cutting its budget by nearly 30 percent. She’s using federal funds to hire two prosecutors and four investigators to handle thousands of complaints against more than 200 companies accused of loan schemes or predatory lending. Nevada was the state hardest-hit by the foreclosure crisis.” [Associated Press, 2/17/11]
Cortez Masto Testified To Assembly Committee That 2009-2011 AG Office Budget Was Cut 30 Percent Or $6.4 Million. “In the 2007-2009 biennium, the AGO cut 12.3 percent of its budget according to General Masto. In the 2009-2011 biennium, the cut was 30 percent or $6,426,208, even though the Governor’s requested budget cut was 10 percent. That cut, according to General Masto, included the elimination of 8 positions— 5.28 DAGs, 2 legal researchers, and 1 administrative assistant.” [Assembly Committee on Ways and Means Meeting Minutes, 2/21/11]
Cortez Masto Testified To Assembly Committee That 2011-2013 AG Office Budget Was Cut By 20.7 Percent Or $8.2 Million. “General Masto said the 2011-2013 biennium proposed budget included a 29.7 percent or $8,286,241 cut to the AG’s budget with the elimination of four full-time equivalent (FTE) positions, two DAG positions, one forensic examiner position, and one legal secretary 2 position. General Masto believed the AGO would be able to fulfill its charter within the proposed budget. There were no new fees within that budget. General Masto proposed to fulfill all of the AGO responsibilities with no new staff requests.” [Assembly Committee on Ways and Means Meeting Minutes, 2/21/11]
… AND VOLUNTARILY RETURNED TENS OF THOUSANDS OF HER SALARY TO NEVADA TAXPAYERS
Las Vegas Sun: Records Show Cortez Masto Returned Salary To Nevada’s General Fund. “Records show most other constitutional officers, who earn less than the governor, have returned more money to the state’s general fund. Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, who earns $133,000, has contributed $5,971, or 4.6 percent, for the full fiscal year.” [Las Vegas Sun, 2/24/10]
Cortez Masto Returned More Than $44,000 Of Her Salary:
Year
Salary
Furlough Donation
Percent Returned
2010
$ 132,635.62
$ 5,971.00
4.5%
2011
$ 140,500.14
$ 8,018.50
5.7%
2012
$ 140,323.44
$ 11,944.09
8.5%
2013
$ 140,688.96
$ 9,373.70
6.7%
2014
$ 140,699.52
$ 8,902.14
6.3%
Total
$ 694,847.68
$ 44,209.43
6.4%
[Catherine Cortez Masto Attorney General Salary; Catherine Cortez Masto Furlough Receipts, 2010-2014]
Cortez Masto Used Automatic Pay Deduction To Return Her Salary. “The state constitutional officers are: Gibbons, Wallin, Secretary of State Ross Miller, Treasurer Kate Marshall, Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki and Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto. Miller, who makes about $87,500 annually, said Monday that he is finalizing his enrollment in the pay deductions. Cortez Masto, whose base salary is listed at $133,000, said she also intends to use the automatic deduction option.” [Reno Gazette-Journal, 12/16/09]
Cortez Masto Spokeswoman: “Catherine Is Going To Take The Same Salary Cuts As State Employees.” “Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto and state Controller Kim Wallin are taking the raise, but they said they will return to the state whatever salary reductions are approved by the 2011 Legislature. Masto’s pay will increase to $140,980 with the 6 percent increase, while Wallin will receive $102,890. Miller and Marshall could receive the same amount as Wallin if they took the increase. Otherwise, they will be paid $97,000. […] ‘Catherine is going to take the same salary cuts as state employees,’ added Edie Cartwright, Masto’s spokeswoman.” [Las Vegas Review-Journal, 1/11/11]
Cortez Masto Donated Tens Of Thousands Of Dollars Of Her Salary Back To Nevada Taxpayers. “Masto’s campaign defended the candidate’s record, noting she took a pay cut to protect her office’s budget and noted Heck voted against budgets that would have limited taxpayer-funded air travel for members of Congress. ‘This is a typical misleading attack ad; the fact is that as Attorney General, Catherine Cortez Masto cut her office budget by thirty percent, and, when state workers were furloughed, stood with them and voluntarily donated tens of thousands of dollars of her salary back to the taxpayers,’ Nevada Democratic Party spokesman Zach Hudson said.” [Politico Pro, 12/15/15]
PolitiFact Nevada: It’s Clear That As Attorney General, Cortez Masto Didn’t “Pad Her Pockets” While State Workers Suffered, She Received “Essentially The Same Salary” During Her Eight Years In Office. “According to information collected from TransparentNevada.com and records request from the state Controller’s office, PolitiFact Nevada put together this spreadsheet of salaries, donations and what percentage of salary was donated back to the state. As shown, it’s clear that as Attorney General, Cortez Masto didn’t ‘pad her pockets’ while state workers suffered – rather, she received essentially the same salary (not counting benefits) during her eight years in office when donations are subtracted out.” [PolitiFact Nevada, 2/3/16]
FACT: HECK VOTED TO KEEP PERKS FOR MEMBERS OF CONGRESS…
HECK VOTED AGAINST GETTING RID OF SUBSIDES FOR HOUSE GYM, BARBER SHOP, SALON, AND DINING ROOM
Heck Voted Against Providing $2.966 Trillion In New Budget Authority For Fiscal 2013, Not Including Off-Budget Accounts. In 2012, Heck voted against: “Van Hollen, D-Md., substitute amendment that would provide $2.966 trillion in new budget authority for fiscal 2013, not including off-budget accounts. In fiscal 2013, it would cap discretionary spending at $1.047 trillion, including $546 billion for defense spending. It would assume the replacement of the $1.2 trillion sequestration scheduled under the 2011 debt limit law with deficit reduction from targeted spending cuts and revenue increases. It would reduce the deficit to below 3 percent of gross domestic product for every year after 2014, and assume permanent extension of the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts for the middle class and the elimination of a variety of corporate tax breaks. It would assume full implementation of the 2010 health care overhaul and would accommodate funding for surface transportation, first-responder and veterans jobs, and a temporary tax credit for new hiring and wage increases.” The amendment was rejected 163-262. [CQ, 3/29/12; H Con Res 112, Vote 150, 3/29/12]
• Measure Would Identify Ways To Reduce Any Subsidies Paid For The Operation Of The House Gym, Barber Shop, Salon, And The House Dining Room. “It is the policy of this resolution that the House of Representatives should lead by example and identify any savings that can be achieved through greater productivity and efficiency gains in the operation and maintenance of House services and resources like printing, conferences, utilities, telecommunications, furniture, grounds maintenance, postage, and rent. This should include a review of policies and procedures for acquisition of goods and services to eliminate any unnecessary spending. The Committee on House Administration shall review the policies pertaining to the services provided to Members of Congress and House Committees, and shall identify ways to reduce any subsidies paid for the operation of the House gym, Barber shop, Salon, and the House dining room. Further, it is the policy of this resolution that no taxpayer funds may be used to purchase first class airfare or to lease corporate jets for Members of Congress.” [Section 412 of Van Hollen Amendment #6]
…AND VOTED AGAINST GETTING RID OF CONGRESSIONAL PENSIONS FOR FORMER CONGRESSMEN WHO BECAME WELL-PAID LOBBYISTS
Heck Voted Against Making Former Members Of Congress Who Are Registered Lobbyists Earning More Than $1 Million Annually Ineligible To Receive Retirement Benefits Under The Civil Service Retirement System Or Federal Employees Retirement System. In 2012, Heck voted against: “Loebsack, D-Iowa, motion to recommit the bill to the House Budget Committee and report it back immediately with an amendment that would make former members of Congress who are registered lobbyists earning more than $1 million annually ineligible to receive retirement benefits under the Civil Service Retirement System or Federal Employees Retirement System. It also would require that members of Congress contribute more toward their retirement benefits and prohibit lawmakers from making contributions to retirement benefits with accrued or accumulated leave.” The motion was rejected 170-232. [CQ, 5/10/12; HR 5652, Vote 246, 5/10/12]
• Measure Would Ban Ex-Members From Receiving Pensions So Long As They Worked As Registered Lobbyists And Made $1 Million Annually. “Former congressmen now making a fortune in the lobbying industry, take heed: Your government pensions are safe… House Democrats, in a display of procedural gamesmanship, failed in an attempt to amend the Republican-backed Sequester Replacement Reconciliation Act with language banning ex-members from receiving benefits from either the Civil Service Retirement System or Federal Employees’ Retirement System so long as they worked as registered lobbyists and made $1 million annually from their activities.” [Politico, 5/11/12]
• Headline: “Lobbyists Safe From Losing Pensions” [Politico, 5/11/12]
…AND VOTED AGAINST DISCLOSURE FOR CONGRESSMEN CLAIMING TAX DEDUCTIONS ON BUSINESSES
Heck Voted Against Requiring Members Of Congress Claiming Tax Deduction To Disclose The Deduction Amount And Type Of Business Income It Came From. In April 2012, Heck voted against: “Deutch, D-Fla., motion to recommit the bill to the House Ways and Means Committee and report it back immediately with an amendment that would make income from prostitution, pornography, drug trafficking, lobbying, golf courses that discriminate based on sex or race, or taxpayers who violate Iran sanctions ineligible for the tax deduction. It also would require members of Congress claiming the deduction to disclose the deduction amount and type of business income it came from.” The motion failed 179-229. [CQ, 4/19/12; HR 9, Vote 176, 4/19/12]
…AND VOTED TO ALLOW MEMBERS OF CONGRESS TO TRAVEL ON PRIVATE JETS ON THE TAXPAYERS DIME
2014: Heck Voted Against Democratic Substitute Budget That Prohibited Taxpayer Funds From Being Used To Lease Corporate Jets For Members Of Congress. In April 2014, Heck voted against: “The Committee on House Administration shall review the policies pertaining to the services provided to Members of Congress and House Committees, and shall identify ways to reduce any subsidies paid for the operation of the House gym, Barber- shop, Salon, and the House dining room. Further, it is the policy of this resolution that no taxpayer funds may be used to purchase first class airfare or to lease corporate jets for Members of Congress.” The substitute amendment was rejected in Committee of the Whole by a vote of 163-261. [Rep. Van Hollen (D-MD) Substitute Budget, Introduced 4/10/14; H.Amdt.616 to H.Con.Res.96, Vote 176, 4/10/14]
2013: Heck Voted Against Democratic Substitute Budget That Prohibited Taxpayer Funds From Being Used To Lease Corporate Jets For Members Of Congress. In March 2013, Heck voted against: “The Committee on House Administration shall review the policies pertaining to the services provided to Members of Congress and House Committees, and shall identify ways to reduce any subsidies paid for the operation of the House gym, Barbershop, Salon, and the House dining room. Further, it is the policy of this resolution that no taxpayer funds may be used to purchase first class airfare or to lease corporate jets for Members of Congress.” The substitute amendment was rejected in Committee of the Whole by a vote of 165-253. [Rep. Van Hollen (D-MD) Substitute Budget, Introduced 3/20/13; H.Amdt.36 to H.Con.Res.25, Vote 87, 3/20/13]
2012: Heck Voted Against Democratic Substitute Budget That Prohibited Taxpayer Funds From Being Used To Lease Corporate Jets For Members Of Congress. In March 2012, Heck voted against: “The Committee on House Administration shall review the policies pertaining to the services provided to Members of Congress and House Committees, and shall identify ways to reduce any subsidies paid for the operation of the House gym, Barbershop, Salon, and the House dining room. Further, it is the policy of this resolution that no taxpayer funds may be used to purchase first class airfare or to lease corporate jets for Members of Congress.” The substitute amendment was rejected in Committee of the Whole by a vote of 163-262. [Rep. Van Hollen (D-MD) Substitute Budget, Introduced 3/29/12; H.Amdt.1004 to H.Con.Res.112, Vote 150, 2/29/12]
ANNOUNCER: NRSC is responsible for the content of this advertising.
Text: Catherine Cortez Masto Another Corrupt Politician Nevada Can’t Afford
REALITY: WASHINGTON REPUBLICANS CONTINUE THEIR PATTERN OF FALSE AND MISLEADING ATTACKS ON CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO THAT HAVE BEEN REPEATEDLY DEBUNKED BY INDEPENDENT FACT-CHECKERS
Washington Post Fact Check Gave NRSC Three Pinocchios For False Claims About Cortez Masto Support For Iran Deal. [Washington Post Fact Check, NRSC Ad “There’s No Going Back,” 10/6/15]
Washington Post Fact Check: NRSC “Exaggerated Charges” And Used “Misleading Language” To Frighten Voters Into Thinking Cortez Masto Made A Foreign Policy Blunder By Supporting Iran Deal. In September 2015, Washington Post fact checker Glenn Kessler wrote, “This is an ad designed to frighten voters into thinking that Masto has made a tragic foreign-policy blunder that will lead to nuclear conflict. But the images would be justified only if the case were as compelling as the NRSC suggests. Instead, the organization has exaggerated the charges and used misleading language to make its case. With a few tweaks in the wording and less stark images, the NRSC could make a reasonable argument that supporting the nuclear deal is a mistake. But this effort is a miss.” [Washington Post Fact Check, NRSC Ad “There’s No Going Back,” 10/6/15]
Washington Post Fact Check: NRSC Ad “Incorrectly” Suggested Iran Deal Allows The Financing Of Terrorists. In September 2015, Washington Post fact checker Glenn Kessler wrote, “Iran has billions of dollars in assets that are frozen in foreign banks around the globe, and this deal would unlock those funds. No one quite knows how much money is at stake, but estimates range from $29 billion to $150 billion, with $100 billion the figure most often used. The Treasury Department has estimated that once Iran fulfills other obligations, it would have about $56 billion left. That’s certainly ‘billions.’ But remember, this is already Iran’s money; it is not being ‘given’ any kind of signing bonus. […] The ad, however, incorrectly suggests that the agreement directly allows the financing of terrorists.” [Washington Post Fact Check, NRSC Ad “There’s No Going Back,” 10/6/15]
Washington Post Fact Check: NRSC Ad Used “Misleading Language” To Make It Appear That Arms Controls Were Being Weakened. In September 2015, Washington Post fact checker Glenn Kessler wrote, “‘Arms controls’ refers to U.N. Security Council sanctions limiting nations from supplying Iran’s weapon programs. Iran had wanted the sanctions lifted immediately, but as a compromise the deal called for the embargo on ballistic missiles to be lifted after a maximum of eight years. Sanctions on conventional weapons would be lifted after five years. The time frame could be shortened if the International Atomic Energy Agency determines that Iran’s nuclear program was only for peaceful purposes. Here, again, the ad uses misleading language. This nuclear deal is an arms-control agreement, but ad makes it appears as if ‘arms controls’ are being weakened. Supplies for Iran’s ballistic missile program were under sanctions, but there were never agreed limits on the number of Iran’s ballistic missiles, as is typical in an arms-control agreement.” [Washington Post Fact Check, NRSC Ad “There’s No Going Back,” 10/6/15]
Washington Post Fact Check: Despite NRSC Ad Claims, All Of Iran’s Nuclear Sites Will Have Continuous Monitoring And IAEA Officials Insisted Verification Was “Not Compromised.” In September 2015, Washington Post fact checker Glenn Kessler wrote, “Under the deal, all of Iran’s declared nuclear sites, such as the Natanz uranium enrichment facility, will be under continuous monitoring by the IAEA. For 10 years, Iran will have limits on the uranium enrichment permitted at Natanz; the IAEA will be able to keep close tabs on the production. The deal also allows IAEA monitoring of Iran’s centrifuge production and storage facilities, the procurement chain, and the mining and milling of uranium — verification measures that many experts say exceed those under previous negotiated nuclear deals with other nations. So what is the ad talking about? It is referring to sites that have not been declared as nuclear, such as sensitive military locations. Under a side agreement between Iran and the IAEA, Iran will help collect samples at Parchin, which Tehran says is a conventional military facility, though the IAEA believes explosive triggers for nuclear weapons may have been tested there. The IAEA sought access to the site to determine whether there had been a military dimension to Iran’s nuclear program. News reports have given contradictory information on what took place during a September visit to Parchin by the IAEA. Officials have said that Iranian technicians played a role in obtaining the samples — possibly without IAEA officials present — but insisted that the verification process was not compromised. Still, officials have conceded that the arrangement was a departure from the way the IAEA normally conducts inspections. In any case, the ad again greatly simplifies a complex issue.” [Washington Post Fact Check, NRSC Ad “There’s No Going Back,” 10/6/15]
PolitiFact: NRSC Ad “Mostly False” Because Crime Statistics Were A Crude Way To Measure Safety And Nevada Had Several Quirks That Inflated Numbers. “Experts agree that crime statistics are a crude way to measure safety, and Nevada has several quirks that inflate the numbers. The ad claims that Cortez Masto 'couldn’t keep us safe,’ but crime statistics have more to do with local law enforcement agencies than the state’s attorney general. The NRSC offers no proven link connecting her actions as attorney general to a swing in murder, robbery and rape. The statement contains an element of truth but leaves out important details. We rate the statement Mostly False.” [PolitiFact, 8/10/16]
PolitiFact: No Proof That Cortez Masto Had Anything To Do With Decline Of Crime In First Term Or Subsequent Increase In Second. “That’s a serious charge, and there’s no concrete proof she had anything to do with the decline in crime in her first term or the subsequent increase in her second. Crime was at an historical low in 2011, and it’s hard to say why. The crime report itself cautions police agencies against drawing any conclusions about a specific department given the variety of factors that can affect crime trends. 'Because of other assigned duties, the peculiar cycle of crime and clearances, and different community factors that normally affect crime statistics, no conclusions regarding individual departments should be made without consulting directly with the agency being analyzed,’ the report states.” [PolitiFact, 8/10/16]
PolitiFact: No Proof That Cortez Masto Caused Nevada’s Ranking Third In Ten Most Dangerous States. “Similarly, there is some truth that Nevada took the third spot in a ranking of the 10 most dangerous states. Again, however, it’s not proven what Cortez Masto had to do with it, and the source is not as credible as the FBI. The NRSC cites a list published in January 2015 from 24/7 Wall Street, a website that covers financial news. The list indeed ranks Nevada third, but the data relies on both crime data and socioeconomic factors, such as the poverty rate and the percentage of adults with a high school diploma. No attorneys general, in Nevada or elsewhere, play much of a role in setting educational policy or promoting programs to get people out of poverty.” [Politifact, 8/10/16]
PolitiFact: NRSC Cherry-Picked Handful Of Crime Statistics To Portray Cortez Masto As Weak On Crime. “The NRSC ad says Nevada was ranked as the third most dangerous state by the time Cortez Masto left office, and that "murder went up 11 percent, robbery went up 28 percent, rape 51 percent” during her second term. The NRSC cherry-picks a handful of short-term crime statistics to portray Cortez Masto as weak on crime enforcement. But the argument is flawed.“ [PolitiFact, 8/10/16]
PolitiFact Nevada: NRSC Claim That Cortez Masto Took Pay Increases Is “A Highly Misleading Claim.” “The NRSC said Cortez Masto ‘was happy to line her own pockets with taxpayer dollars when state employees were slammed with frozen salaries,’ but this is a highly misleading claim. The state increased Cortez Masto’s salary during a time of pay freezes for Nevada’s state workers. She was unable to legally reject the pay increase, so she donated $38,000 back to the state during her last four years in office. We rate the claim Mostly False.” [PolitiFact Nevada, 2/3/16]
PolitiFact Nevada: It’s Clear That As Attorney General, Cortez Masto Didn’t “Pad Her Pockets” While State Workers Suffered – She Received Essentially The Same Salary During Her Eight Years In Office. “According to information collected from TransparentNevada.com and records request from the state Controller’s office, PolitiFact Nevada put together this spreadsheet of salaries, donations and what percentage of salary was donated back to the state. As shown, it’s clear that as Attorney General, Cortez Masto didn’t ‘pad her pockets’ while state workers suffered – rather, she received essentially the same salary (not counting benefits) during her eight years in office when donations are subtracted out.” [PolitiFact Nevada, 2/3/16]
Jon Ralston: Freedom Partners Uber Ad Is “Bullshit” – Uber Is Still Here. In June 2016, Jon Ralston tweeted: “@FreedomPartners digital ad on @CatherineForNV is brutal but BS: It says she ‘drove them out of town,’ but Uber is still here.’ [Twitter, Jon Ralston, 6/24/16]
Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Steve Sebelius On Uber Ad: Cortez Masto Had The Gall To Actually Enforce The Law. In June 2016, Las Vegas Review-Journal columnist Steve Sebelius tweeted: “Shorter @FreedomPartners on @CatherineForNV: ‘As attorney general, she had the gall to actually enforce NV transpo laws as written!’” [Twitter, Steve Sebelius, 6/24/16]
Headline: Politifact: Freedom Partners Ad Attacking Cortez Masto On Uber "Mostly False.” [Politifact, 7/7/16]
Politifact Rated The Uber Attack Ad Mostly False “Because The Ad Takes Things Out Of Context.” “ Freedom Partners got a couple of the details right in the amount of taxi industry donations and Cortez Masto’s aggressive legal actions against Uber. But there’s a convincing argument that Uber at the very least bent the rules, and it’s clear that Cortez Masto didn’t have some sort of individual vendetta against the ride-hailing company — her office was working with state regulators who specifically requested the attorney general take action. The ad also neglects to mention how Uber only temporarily left town. The ridesharing service is very much up and running through Nevada a year after its initial skirmish with the state. Because this ad takes things out of context, we rate it Mostly False.” [Politifact, 7/7/16]
Heck Supporter And Former Nevada Transportation Authority Chairman Said It’s Possible Cortez Masto Could Have Ignored The Will Of The State, But It Would Have Been Highly Unusual, “I Couldn’t Foresee The AG Or Any AG Not Enforcing State Law.” “Former Nevada Transportation Authority chairman Andrew MacKay said the massive size of Uber’s workforce dwarfed the enforcement capabilities of state regulators, meaning the only real maneuver available was a court-ordered restraining order. MacKay, who disclosed that he’s supporting Republican Joe Heck in the state’s Senate race, detailed some of the issues with Uber in a three-page affidavit describing the more stringent requirements of Nevada’s cab companies. […] MacKay, chairman of the state’s ‘client’ in the case against Uber, said it’s theoretically possible that Cortez Masto could have ignored the will of the state and not filed suit, but it would have been highly unusual. ‘I couldn’t foresee the AG or any AG not enforcing state law,’ MacKay said.” [Politifact, 7/7/16]
Las Vegas Review-Journal’s Steve Sebelius: Two Recent Ads From The Koch Brothers-Backed Freedom Partners Action Fund PAC Targeting Cortez Masto Arranged Perfectly True Facts To Lead To A False Conclusion. “Anybody who’s ever been to a courthouse knows its possible to arrange perfectly true facts to lead a jury to a false conclusion. It’s no different in the court of public opinion. Take two recent ads from the Koch brothers-backed Freedom Partners Action Fund PAC targeting Democratic former Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, who’s now running for Senate. The ads allege she hired a well-connected Washington, D.C., law firm to sue Bank of America during the foreclosure crisis. The firm earned millions in fees. Partners in the firm later gave Cortez Masto campaign contributions. Therefore, corruption!” [Las Vegas Review Journal, Column, 5/10/16]
Las Vegas Review Journal’s Steve Sebelius: “Sounds Much More Like Cortez Masto Doing Her Job Than Cozying Up To A Washington Special Interest For Personal Profit.” “So, while it’s true Cortez Masto recommended the hiring of a law firm that earned money representing the state and whose partners later contributed to her campaign, it’s also true the firm successfully forced one of the largest banks in the country to pay the state millions to compensate for alleged wrongdoing. That sounds much more like Cortez Masto doing her job than cozying up to a Washington special interest for personal profit. In fact, you’d have to very carefully arrange the facts to lead people to that conclusion. That’s why you always have to wait until you’ve heard the entire story, in court and out.” [Las Vegas Review Journal, Column, 5/10/16]
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