Abramoff Ethics Scandal Looms Over Republicans'

Earlier this afternoon in an article written by Thomas Ferraro the media once again attempted to paint the conservatives as guilt ridden violators of the Abramoff scandal.

Forced to "regroup" in a retreat, it was questioned as to whether this party was capable of retaining it's current power.

Reid Aided Abramoff Clients, Records Show
JOHN SOLOMON and SHARON THEIMER, AP, Feb 9, 5:39 PM (ET)

Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid wrote at least four letters helpful to Indian tribes represented by Jack Abramoff, and the senator's staff regularly had contact with the disgraced lobbyist's team about legislation affecting other clients.

The activities - detailed in billing records and correspondence obtained by The Associated Press - are far more extensive than previously disclosed. They occurred over three years as Reid collected nearly $68,000 in donations from Abramoff's firm, lobbying partners and clients.

Reid's office acknowledged Thursday having "routine contacts" with Abramoff's lobbying partners and intervening on some government matters - such as blocking some tribal casinos - in ways Abramoff's clients might have deemed helpful. But it said none of his actions were affected by donations or done for Abramoff. ...

Reid, D-Nev., has led the Democratic Party's attacks portraying Abramoff's lobbying and fundraising as a Republican scandal.

But Abramoff's records show his lobbying partners billed for nearly two dozen phone contacts or meetings with Reid's office in 2001 alone. ...

Another lie is defeated by the truth. The liberals remain angry, searching for a platform, ideas to propose to the voters in 2006.

JDW