Cohen

Comcast executive David Cohen and his wife, Rhonda, raised more than $500,000 for President Obama’s re-election campaign from contributions from friends and corporate associates.

In addition to straight contributions, the Cohens were among the top three money-bundlers for the Obama campaign in the greater Philadelphia area, funneling large sums of cash from a variety of sources to the Obama re-election effort.

Critics contend this level of money in politics assures large corporate donors can get access to top elected officials and bend their ears on administration policies. It also could get donors more favorable treatment from regulators beholden to the administration or Congress.

Although the Cohens have been legendary fundraisers for Democratic candidates for years, the Pennsylvania press buzzed over word Cohen intended to support the re-election of Republican Gov. Corbett in 2014. In January alone, Cohen and his wife raised $200,000 for Corbett at a single fundraiser, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Cohen told the newspaper he has had a long-term relationship with Obama, dating to when Obama was a state senator in Illinois, and a 20-year relationship with Vice President Biden.

“I know them personally, like and respect them, and believed that they were the superior choice,” Cohen said.