A press release sent by the Democratic party two days ago:
Congressman John Shadegg, and more than two dozen other members of Congress, wrote to Interior Secretary Gale Norton on Feb. 27, 2002, regarding a matter that benefited [indicted lobbyist Jack] Abramoff’s clients. Shadegg received about $2,500 from Abramoff, his lobbying partners and tribal clients between 2001 and 2004.
Shadegg’s response:
The Associated Press story Thursday, and the Democratic Party press release based on it, contain significant factual errors. They allege U.S. Congressman John Shadegg wrote letters of behalf of, and accepted contributions from, lobbyist Jack Abramoff. The record shows he did neither.
“I have never met or spoken to Jack Abramoff,” Shadegg said. “I have never written any sort of letter on his behalf, and I have never received any campaign contributions from him.”
“I have been an outspoken opponent of Indian casino gambling throughout my public life, and have spoken out repeatedly on the issue. Because of this firm belief, I have signed letters and made statements opposing the expansion of Indian gambling at every opportunity, and will continue to do so.”
Well he either received contributions from Abramoff, or he didn’t. I think the casino issue is a red herring; he doth protest too much.
There could still be some dirty laundy here. Maybe Shadegg *didn’t know* that Abramoff contibuted to him.
I think the casino issue is a red herring; he doth protest too much.
I think it’s relevant in that someone who would want to shut down Indian gaming would make an interesting funding target from someone who’s made $85m from it.
Maybe Shadegg *didn’t know* that Abramoff contibuted to him.
It’s a pretty vehement denial for not knowing the source. Anyway, I need to follow this more closely.