Timing of Comcast lawsuit announcement appears too perfect

Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced Monday that he is suing Comcast for $100 million, alleging that the television and internet provider engaged in a “pattern of illegally deceiving their customers to pad their bottom line by tens of millions of dollars.” KIRO Radio’s John Curley noted that the timing of the announcement is awfully suspicious, seeing as primary election vote finishes Tuesday.

Comcast officials initially responded that they were blindsided by the lawsuit, saying the company had been working with the AG’s office on the issues and were making improvements.

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“Given that we were committed to continue working collaboratively with the Attorney General’s Office, we’re surprised and disappointed that they have instead chosen litigation,” said Beth Hester, Comcast vice president of external affairs in Washington state, in a statement. “We stand behind our products and services and will vigorously defend ourselves.”

Ferguson said in a press conference that he brought up the issues a year ago and that Comcast only started making improvements once a lawsuit was brought up.

Ferguson, a Democrat, is competing against Libertarian Joshua Trumbull for the AG spot.

“Perfect timing,” Curley said. “If you’re running for office, and the primary is tomorrow, why not come out with a big press conference today.”

Co-host Tom Tangney noted that many people have already likely cast their vote.

Curley: What about those who haven’t voted. You think that would affect who they vote for? It’s perfect timing.

Tangney: You always assume the worst of human nature and I always assume the best. The truth is usually somewhere in between. But you raise an interesting point.

Curley: Look, the primary is tomorrow, it’s great to be able to make a big splash headline. And when you’re sitting there with the ballot, you can go, ‘Who do I want for attorney general? I’ve recently heard of Bob Ferguson.’

Tangney: He’s not being challenged by another Democrat, so he’d make it past the primary. So tomorrow isn’t the crucial day.

Curley: Still couldn’t hurt.

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