When I first wrote, in August, about
Amazon's special snowflake treatment of Paul Ryan, it didn't cross my mind that there might be some illegality. But that's what a Washington-based organization is claiming today:
CREW Files Ethics Complaint Against Rep. Paul Ryan
Quote:
Rep. Ryan’s book came out on August 19, 2014. As with other Hachette titles, Amazon had not made it available for pre-order, which typically hurts sales. Initially, it was difficult to find on Amazon’s site and was not discounted. The next day, Rep. Ryan appeared on CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” criticizing Amazon. In short order – and in marked contrast with its treatment of other Hachette authors – Amazon suddenly made Rep. Ryan’s book easily discoverable, discounted it by 25 percent, and shipped it immediately. . . .
House ethics rules prohibit lawmakers from accepting gifts given as a result of their congressional employment. “Gift” includes favors, discounts and anything of monetary value. Amazon employs lobbyists and, if the company arranged more favorable treatment of Rep. Ryan’s book because of his position as a member of Congress, the congressman accepted a gift in violation of House rules.
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