Mr. Daschle's Questionable Role in the Health-Care Debate

Exactly how much does United Health Group pay Thomas A. Daschle for his services ["Oval Office Visit Hints at Daschle's Role," front page, Aug. 23]?

It is obviously well worth it, considering, as this story reported, that "White House aides said that Daschle's work does not represent a conflict of interest and that Obama counts the former Senate leader as a confidant."

I am sure that despite being paid by United Health Group, Mr. Daschle freely advises the Obama team contrary to the best interests of United Health. No appearance of a conflict of interest there!

Please explain to this poor physician and citizen exactly what constitutes a conflict of interest, because it appears to me that someone who is advising both legislators and a private company is the definition of a conflict of interest.

PAUL L. WEINER

McLean