Reichert May Face Ex-Microsoft Exec (Again)
Microsoft funded campaigns continue to be a thorn in the side of Rep. Dave Reichert, R-Wash., who could face his third ex-Microsoft employee in a consecutive election in 2010. Media reports have indicated that former Microsoft vice president Susan DelBene, a Democrat, is expected to give Reichert a run for his money. In 2006 and 2008, ex-Microsoft employee Darcy Burner, who was endorsed by EMILY's List, ran against Reichert but she narrowly lost both races. It has been reported that Burner does not plan to run in 2010. On Friday the American Progressive Caucus Policy Foundation announced that she will serve as the group's executive director.
During her 2008 race, Burner collected more than twice as much money from Internet activists and officials at Microsoft than Reichert in their race for the 8th District seat, a report from CongressDaily found. According to FEC filings, Burner received $93,894 from Microsoft and its employees while Reichert received a total of $35,750. In 2008, Burner also received $104,076 in donations through ActBlue, an online PAC that raises money for Democrats. While DelBene's resume sounds similar to Burner's, the Politico reports DelBene "served in a top management position" while Burner was a mid-level manager. DelBene also helped create Drugstore.com and served as CEO of software firm Nimble Technology. -- Winter Casey
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