When Is A Front Group Not A Front Group?

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"We have been wrongfully labeled as an auto industry front group," Ron DeFore, communications director for SUV Owners of America, told PR Week. The group is running a campaign opposing proposed regulations in California to limit truck and SUV emissions. Defore is also a principal at Stratacom, a PR firm that counts the auto industry as one of its biggest clients. Defore also told PR Week that Stratacomm had created the non-profit status of the SUV group two years ago after buying the name and other assets from its founder. "There was a tremendous need in the public-policy arena, as well as the media, for some balance to be brought to the coverage on SUVs," Defore said. California represents 10% of the US auto market.