I think it's great when we have talented people in government service.  And if they can command large fees without interfering in their normal govt job then I say let them do it. It's a small compromise to attract the talent. HOWEVER, the key stat here is that he was receiving (for the same consulting job) 1/10 the compensation before he was mayor and most likely putting in more work.  I don't think he suddenly got more talented after becoming mayor. The only logical conclusion is that he is using his position as mayor to provide inside information to Territorial or its clients for personal gain.