Abramoff spills the beans
Infamous Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff has entered a guilty plea to charges of fraud, public corruption and tax evasion. Dozens of Republican lawmakers have gotten into bed with this man, and he is about to give up the ghosts to investigators. The New York Times said Abramoff’s crimes could amount to “the biggest scandal in congress in over a century.”
From AP writers Mark Sherman and Curt Anderson ... (link)
Embattled lobbyist Jack Abramoff pleaded guilty Tuesday to federal charges of conspiracy, tax evasion and mail fraud, agreeing to cooperate in an influence-peddling investigation that threatens powerful members of Congress.
In a heavily scripted court appearance, Abramoff agreed with U.S. District Court Judge Ellen Huvelle when she said he had engaged in a conspiracy involving "corruption of public officials." The lobbyist also agreed when she said he and others had engaged in a scheme to provide campaign contributions, trips and other items "in exchange for certain official acts."
"Words will not ever be able to express my sorrow and my profound regret for all my actions and mistakes," Abramoff said, addressing the judge. "I hope I can merit forgiveness from the Almighty and those I've wronged or caused to suffer."
Here’s a list of names attached to Abramoff money. My suggestion? DO NOT VOTE FOR THEM.
Rep. Roy Blunt (R-MO)
Sen. Conrad Burns (R-MT)
Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
Sen. Thad Cochran (R-MS)
Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX)
Rep. Tom DeLay (R-TX)
Rep. John Doolittle (R-CA)
Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND)
Sen. John Ensign (R-NV)
Rep. Tom Feeney (R-FL)
Sen. Charles Grassley (R-IA)
Sen. Tom Harkin (D-IA)
Rep. J. Dennis Hastert (R-IL)
Rep. J.D. Hayworth (R-AZ)
Rep. Ernest Istook (R-OK)
Sen. Trent Lott (R-MS)
Rep. Bob Ney (R-OH)
Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV)
Rep. Pete Sessions (R-TX)
Sen. David Vitter (R-LA)
Rep. Roger Wicker (R-MS)
Isn’t that something? I noticed three Democrats on the list above. If they are guilty of any misdeeds, screw ‘em. A corrupt politician is a corrupt politician. They deserve a cold, concrete cell.
Interestingly enough, when Bush was preparing to steal the presidential election in 2000, Abramoff donated over $100,000 to his campaign. He also charged several individuals over $25,000 a piece to schedule “lunches” with the president. When Abramoff was indicted on these charges last year, the Bush administration called it “unacceptable” and “outrageous.” Now he admits it is true.
There is a very comprehensive, detailed, thoroughly sourced document about the wide-reaching scandal on Think Progress. Check it out.
The Glass House is about to come crashing down. Best of luck at that Document Shredding Party, guys!
