By BJ Austin, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-823692.mp3
Dallas, TX – Former Dallas Mayor Ron Kirk owes the IRS ten thousand dollars. Irregularities in Kirk's last three tax returns came to light during the "vetting" process for U.S. Trade Representative. KERA's BJ Austin reports.
The primary problem is 40 thousand dollars in speaking fees that Kirk sent directly to his alma mater, Austin College. He should have reported the speaking fees as income, then as charitable donations.
SMU political scientist Cal Jillson says it's an honest mistake.
Jillson: It's understandable that this type of mistake could be made. But whether that is enough to permit his nomination to get thru remains to be seen' because, as we know, the partisan knives are out in Washington, and he may fall victim to them.
Jillson says Kirk is the fourth Obama cabinet nominee with tax problems, and that could hurt the former Dallas Mayor. Kirk has agreed to pay the amount. His confirmation hearing for U.S. Trade Representative has been postponed until Monday. Kirk could not be reached for comment.