Boston Scientific among companies halting political donations

Photo | Grant Welker Boston Scientific headquarters in Marlborough

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Boston Scientific in Marlborough is among a rising number of big corporations that are temporarily stopping political donations, a trend that has followed a riot at the U.S. Capitol that was fueled by President Donald Trump.

The medical device company said Monday it chose to temporarily suspend its political action committee, or PAC, activity and review its approach to future contributions "in light of recent events and the polarized political environment."

Boston Scientific joins what The New York Times reported is a growing list of companies making similar moves, including Coca-Cola, Facebook, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs, Blue Cross Blue Shield, JPMorgan Chase, Marriott, Morgan Stanley, and the chemical company Dow. In the cases of Marriott, Dow, Airbnb and Morgan Stanley, those donations were halted in particular to Republicans who voted last week to overturn the November election results, The Times reported.

Boston Scientific's statement on Monday followed a message to employees last week in which it condemned the Capitol attack, and violence and misinformation more broadly, as well as affirmed its belief in respecting the integrity of the democratic process.

"We recognize that many of our employees are feeling unsettled in this divisive climate and we want to make sure you know the company’s position on the events that have transpired and reiterate our commitment to an inclusive and safe workplace," the message said.