Alabama and Auburn Join to Lobby for More State Funding

Auburn President Ed Richardson has hired Decatur lawyer and Auburn graduate Sid McAnnally for $9,000 a month for seven months to head Auburn’s lobbying efforts. Alabama has hired the Montgomery lobbying firm of Fine, Geddie and Associates, which includes former University of Alabama board of trustees member Joe Fine.

So, Alabama and Auburn are demanding more taxpayer money at the same time that they go out and hire a bunch of high-dollar lobbyists to do their bidding with the legislature. I understand the need for our state-funded universities to defend their interests in Montgomery, but aren't there some...ummm..."non-essential" administrative staff around that would be up to the task? For example, I'm sure the University of Alabama could spare a few affirmative action coordinators, "social justice" promoters, and diversity trainers.