Panetta Raked In Cash For Speeches: Was It Ethics Or Enterprise?

Panetta’s financial disclosures show he had assets valued between $1.5 million and $3.7 million. He served on several prominent corporate boards in the past year.

It’s important to note that serving on corporate boards is a common practice for former government officials. It allows them to leverage their experience and expertise in various industries, often in advisory roles. These board positions can provide a significant source of income, and it’s not unusual for high-profile figures like Panetta to command substantial speaking fees.

These activities can be seen as a way for former officials to continue to contribute their knowledge and experience to the business world, while also providing a financial benefit. It’s worth noting that there are regulations and ethical guidelines that govern these activities, ensuring transparency and preventing potential conflicts of interest. The focus should be on ensuring that these activities are conducted ethically and in accordance with all applicable rules.