I didn't mean to be dismissive with my other comment, and people have a right to raise concerns. My caution, though, is that there might be no back room conspiracy. It might simply be a deep pocketed organization sought to have one of the most prominent people in America come speak to them, and he in turn may have sought to maximize his post-public office speaking career. Or it might be an informal "you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" arrangement. I think it's always fair to ask questions. It's not only fair, but it's good that people do. But those people need to realize it might not pan out and know when to take a step back before they get labeled as conspiracy nuts. Not for our benefit, but for theirs.
I never meant to imply you were being dismissive, so I'm sorry you got that feeling. All I was trying to point out was that I don't want to discuss what is and isn't normal. I just want to discuss whether this particular instance is okay or not okay and why.