Some of the companies express pride in their CPA-Zicklin Index ranking.
Pfizer, for one, highlights the CPA-Zicklin Index under the heading “awards and recognition” within the corporate governance section of its website.
The company notes in a document that “at times we may not completely share the views of these various industry and trade groups and/or members, but we are able to voice our concerns, as appropriate, through our colleagues who serve on the boards and committees of these groups.”
Altria also states that it “may not necessarily agree with every position taken by each organization to which we contribute.” It, too, touts its CPA-Zicklin Index ranking, saying, “Our comprehensive approach to disclosure and accountability and our commitment to operating with integrity have resulted in Altria being recognized as a leader in political activities disclosure by many entities, including the Center for Political Accountability-Zicklin Index of Corporate Political Accountability and Disclosure.”
Says Freed: “There’s a real disconnect between these member organizations and their member companies. What the trade groups want and what their members do aren’t always the same thing.”
But plenty of companies provide little if any information about their political activities in corporate filings.