Pfizer Investors Spurn Gender Equity Political Spending Proposal (1)

Pfizer Inc. shareholders have voted down an investor’s plan encouraging the drugmaker to study how its political spending matches its efforts to combat prejudice against women.

The Tara Health Foundation sought an annual report on whether Pfizer’s political, lobbying and electioneering expenses are consistent with its goal to “end discrimination against women, ensure equal opportunities for leadership and access to reproductive health,” among other environmental, social and governance objectives. The proposal received 13.7% of investor votes, according to preliminary results announced at Pfizer’s annual meeting on Thursday.

Pfizer’s political spending appears to conflict with its stated interests and values, Tara ...