Cawley has pumped up credit card giant MBNA’s political activities since then-New York Sen. Alfonse D'Amato proposed limits on credit card interest rates in ’92. In ’98, MBNA and the rest of this industry that distributes credit cards like candy urged Congress to slash debt relief for “irresponsible” consumers who declare bankruptcy. MBNA executives gave more than $115,000 to Bush’s gubernatorial campaigns and MBNA was second only to Vinson & Elkins in Bush presidential donations in ’99—the year Cawley hosted a $1,000-a-plate Bush dinner in his home.