Supporters of tough United States sanctions against the Cuban government have given more than US$10 million to congressional campaigns over the last seven years, according to a study released late Sunday night by a group supporting campaign finance reform.

The Washington, DC-based non-profit Public Campaign said the study shows how large sums of money from a small group can influence lawmakers. Public Campaign cites a number of times in which lawmakers changed their position on Cuba-related issues within months of receiving funds from a political action committee that supports the US embargo of the communist island.

Meanwhile, recent surveys suggest more Cubans are split on travel restrictions and other sanctions than in the past.

Those who back US-Cuba Democracy PAC say they are being unfairly targeted for their passionate views toward their homeland. They note many other groups channel money to politicians who support their views.

"Perhaps it's the age-old story of money and politics, but 18 members switched their votes on the subject, some in very close proximity to when they got donations," said Public Cam-paign's David Donnelly.