map of walmart stores

The report also points out that Walmart does not disclose political giving it does through the Chamber of Commerce and other trade industry groups, making it impossible to fully know the scope of the company's political influence. Many leading companies—such as Hewlett Packard, Microsoft, and Merck—have embraced high standards for transparency in their political giving, according to the Center for Political Accountability.

The report examines information from available public records on Walmart's political contributions. It shows how the company and members of the Walton family, who own more than 48% of the company, have wielded their resources to undermine the interests of Walmart's core customers and the associates who work in its stores.

"Walmart should fully disclose its political giving like many other major American corporations already do", said Margaret Butler, Executive Director of Portland Jobs with Justice. "It doesn't serve Portland to send our money to Arkansas so Walmart can use it to fund politicians who vote against our values."

The candidates that Walmart supports often vote against interests that Walmart claims to endorse like Health Care Reform and environmental protections.

Democrats supported by Walmart were much more likely to oppose key elements of President Obama's legislative agenda.

Walmart's PAC and the Walton family continue to give overwhelmingly to Republicans.

The report's primary finding show:

As Walmart seeks to soften its image in order to grow its business in urban communities like Portland, the report "What's Right: Walmart's Words vs. Walmart's Political Priorities," calls into question the image Walmart is attempting to portray to communities like ours.

Portland, OR— In response to new research released this week by Walmart Watch about the company's political contributions, Portland Jobs with Justice urges Walmart to be transparent about its political and charitable giving. A vote on how political contributions are disclosed is expected at today's annual shareholders' meeting.

Via Portland Jobs With Justice....

[caption id="attachment_5312" align="alignleft" width="490" caption="Wal-Mart stores located in the U.S. in 2008 according to Wal-Mart Watch"] [/caption]

Portland JWJ urges Walmart to be transparent about its political and charitable giving

Portland JWJ urges Walmart to be transparent about its political and charitable giving

- Menu -NewsOpinionVendor ProfilesPoetry & ArtArchives

- Menu -About UsAvailabilityContact

Portland JWJ urges Walmart to be transparent about its political and charitable giving | Street Roots