Former Sen. Tom Daschle, picked by President Barack Obama to lead his health reform efforts, recently filed amended tax returns to report $128,203 in back taxes and $11,964 in interest, according to a Senate document obtained by The Associated Press.
The White House acknowledged Friday that "some tax issues" had emerged in connection with the nomination, but a spokesman said the president is confident the former Senate Democratic leader will be confirmed as the new health secretary.
Daschle filed amended tax returns for 2005, 2006 and 2007 to reflect additional income for consulting work, the use of a car service and reduced deductions for charitable contributions.
Don't think there is something fishy? Here is the kicker:
He filed the returns after Obama announced he intended to nominate Daschle to head the Health and Human Services Department.
Of course, Obama knows all about obfuscating finance laws. He nominated Geithner, who was a tax cheat. Now he nominates Daschle. And, of course, he circumvented campaign finance law by using his website for donations and encouraging small donations from unreportable donors.
Do we really want this type of administration during a time when we are discussing how to clean up finances?
Just askin'.
