The Politico reports this morning that the ‘Abramoff Effect’ is still hammering the GOP. The occasion for the piece is the announcement by Representative John Doolittle that he will not seek re-election, largely due to the ‘ethical cloud’ brought on by the investigation, which has been going on for approximately four years (his wife was reportedly subpoenaed in April, 2004). It’s hard to see how this constitutes ‘hammering’ the GOP. It’s main effect is ensure that a safe Republican seat remains Republican, and to take away one of the Democrats’ prime takeover opportunities in 2008. If that’s getting hammered, then bring it on. But beyond that, this might be a good time to consider where the Abramoff investigation currently stands. With the FBI investigation now years old, how many Members of Congress have been convicted? One — former Representative Bob Ney. How many have been charged? So far, only one. I am unaware of any comprehensive list of Members of Congress who have been investigated by the Department of Justice over their receipt of donations from Abramoff, but press reports mention investigations into Doolittle, former Representatives Richard Pombo and Tom DeLay, and representatives Tom Feeney and Jerry Lewis. Yet the list of recipients of Abramoff donations includes about 300 elected officials and party committees. It’s clear that Ney, Abramoff, and a few others are real criminals, deserving of their penalties. But it’s starting to seem that there’s been a lot more ink spilled over Abramoff than may be justified. Indeed, there have already been more Members of Congress cleared than convicted. The Politico mentions Conrad Burns’ exoneration, but fails to note that the FBI cleared former Representative J.D. Hayworth, as well. Actually, let me revise that statement: I’m sure liberals will point out that just because a Member of Congress isn’t charged or convicted, doesn’t mean he isn’t a criminal. And I have to admit: that’s very true. (Just for fun, be sure to check out Flip Pidot’s comparison of the Abramoff and Norman Hsu scandals. It’s quite enlightening.)
