These politicians accepted the most pharma dollars toward their campaigns. [© Ljupco Smokovski - Fotolia.com]
Below is a list of the 20 members of Congress (both Senate and House of Representatives) that have received the most in campaign contributions from pharmaceutical companies during the 2011–2012 election cycle, as recorded by OpenSecrets.org based on data from the Federal Election Commission available as of Aug. 6. Figures reflect contributions from both political action committees (PACs) and individuals giving $200 or more.
#20. Rep. Jason Altmire (D-PA)
Total contributions: $67,500
#19. Sen. Ben Nelson (D-NE)
Total contributions: $70,350
#18. Rep. Jim Gerlach (R-PA)
Total contributions: $73,750
#17. Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD)
Total contributions: $74,000
#16. Rep. Joe Pitts (R-PA)
Total contributions: $76,000
#15. Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI)
Total contributions: $76,500
#13 (tie). Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-CA)
Total contributions: $80,500
#13 (tie). Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN)
Total contributions: $80,500
#12. Rep. James E. Clyburn (D-SC)
Total contributions: $81,250
#11. Sen. Tom Carper (D-DE)
Total contributions: $87,050