Remarkably Uninformed

Dear Editor,
    In his April 24 article, “More Strong-Arming From Uber and Lyft,” Michael King reports that Joshua Baer, executive director of Capital Factory, posted the U.S. Chamber letter as “one more reason to Vote for Prop. 1.” For a self-described local business expert, Joshua Baer seems remarkably uninformed about the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. From campaigning against measures to combat climate change, to lobbying against anti-smoking programs, the U.S. Chamber is one of the most backward forces in American politics and business. A few recent headlines are revealing: “CVS Health Quits U.S. Chamber Over Stance on Smoking”…"U.S. Chamber Works Globally to Fight Anti-Smoking Measures”…"U.S. Chamber Teams Up With Big Oil to Promote Pipeline”…"U.S. Chamber Challenging New EPA Ozone Standard in Court.” Companies like Apple and Pacific Gas & Electric quit the Chamber over its role in denying climate change. World Health Organization officials refer to it as a tobacco industry front group. The following news clip may explain the Chamber’s actions on behalf of Uber and Lyft: "Indeed, the entire business model of the U.S. Chamber is premised on providing secret support for lobbying and campaigns … The Chamber fights regulations on behalf of companies that don't want to be publicly associated with the positions they are advocating” (U.S. News & World Report, Oct 22, 2015). Since it constantly opposes Obama on major policies and is a heavy contributor to far-right Republicans, the U.S. Chamber will have about as much impact on the Obama administration as "a snowflake on the bosom of the Potomac.”