DALLAS (AP) _ Interviews and records show that U.S. Rep. Joe Barton has earned nearly $100,000 from an interest in natural gas wells purchased from a campaign donor who advised him on energy policy.
The Dallas Morning News reported Wednesday cited land records show the Republican from Arlington purchased his interest from Walter G. Mize.
Mize, who died in January 2008, was a Cleburne businessman who donated more than $30,000 to Barton’s campaign and urged him to create a federal oil and gas research program that was included in a 2005 energy law.
Barton says his investment is legal and was publicly reported in accordance with federal law and ethics rules. He says his investment doesn’t conflict with his legislative responsibilities.
Congress is considering energy legislation that would boost demand for natural gas.