Tech firms step up networking at conventions

AT&T, Cisco and Microsoft led a pack of tech and telecom companies that showered the Democratic and Republican national conventions with funds and technology this year, according to new tallies filed with the Federal Election Commission.

As those tech titans set up display booths, threw lavish parties, hosted leading regulators and wooed new delegates, many companies also opened their checkbooks to the host committees in Tampa and Charlotte or contributed in-kind by donating their devices, support or other services. In the end, tech and telecom companies accounted for just a fraction of roughly $55 million raised by the Republicans for the convention in Tampa, according to FEC documents. By contrast, Democrats raked in about $24.1 million — and could have used more — but the party initially resisted corporate contributions. It also received money through an outside fund, called New American City. And that group pulled in almost $20 million, new records show. At both events, tech companies played an increasingly visible role — as their expense reports demonstrate.