Jim McTiernan of Triad USA, the consulting firm that appears to have brokered the deal, said, "Having someone who can help [Highmark] navigate the political process is key." Onorato, he said, "has statewide connections--the knowledge base to get to the right levels and the right parties." Onorato, for his part, was sharing the love: "I am thrilled to be joining Highmark, a great Pittsburgh-based organization that has a history of helping families and companies with their health and wellness needs." Since Highmark is a "corporate person," she is apparently best described as a philanthropist.
Onorato's salary was not made public, but the man he replaces makes over $1 million a year. His yearly salary as County Executive was $90,000. Rep. Jim Cooper of Tennessee famously quipped that "Capitol Hill is a farm league for K Street." A few years in Congress at a relatively modest salary can serve as a stepping stone to a lucrative career as a Washington lobbyist. Newt Gingrich is a prime example. You'll be happy to know that a similar career path is available to Pennsylvania politicians.
Happy New Year, Dan-O! Welcome to the revolving door between corporations and government. Can a revolving charge account at Tiffany's be in your future?
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