To hear Lott Dod tell it, the actions of Nute Gunray did not reflect the true intents of the Trade Federation, which remained loyal to the Galactic Republic. Sure, the Separatist Alliance did use Trade Federation starships and battle droids as part of their fighting forces in the Clone Wars, but this was equipment legitimately purchased in the open market. The Trade Federation was committed to commerce across the entire galaxy, and had no interest in getting caught up in territorial wars, Dodd would say. In truth, the Senator received a healthy income to ensure both sides of the war stay well equipped.
Lott Dod represents and defends the actions of the Trade Federation in the Galactic Senate. He can find a way to spin even the most evil of acts since so many Senators receive frequent bribes from the super-rich corporation.
Dod had a very close working relationship with Rush Clovis of the InterGalactic Banking Clan, as the commerce entity helped finance many Trade Federation and secret Separatist projects.
Countering Queen Amidala's allegations of a Trade Federation invasion of Naboo, Dod suggested a commission be appointed to investigate -- essentially a stalling tactic in disguise. Unwilling to wait for a commission to make a decision, Amidala heeded Palpatine's advice and declared a Vote of No Confidence in the Senate's Chancellor Valorum.
The Trade Federation is so powerful and influential, it is afforded Galactic Senate representation as if it were a member world.
The Trade Federation supplies money, vehicles, droids and more to the Separatist Alliance, but gets away with it due to its well placed ties in the Galactic Republic. Lott Dod frequently lies to the Senate, blaming any Trade Federation involvement with the Separatist as the acts of extremists.