Where is the mainstream media coverage of these issues? The Abramoff scandal touches all Americans — and from my perspective, this issue will ‘wake’ up the ’sleeping giant’, the American people, to the wide-spread, corruption in Washington. Not that we didn’t know it already but it will put a face on it. It will provide us with examples of the arrogance and priviledge that pervades politics.

Politicians and politicos in Washington should be shaking in their boots. And it cuts across party lines so Democrats aren’t going to get a free pass. It reminds me of cock roaches scurring from a dark room when the light is turned on. I hope this issue will get the attention of every American because it is our responsibility as American citizens and voters to make sure that everyone implicated, regardless of party are held responsible for selling out.

What should happen is every long term/career politician should be thrown out of office and average citizens should replace them — to do the work of the ‘people’. This service to our country should be similar to jury duty in that every one of us is obligated to participate in the process.

I am so disgusted with what I’m hearing and the arrogance. I heard a news report yesterday regarding someone who returned money donated by Abramoff to his campaign. He said and I’m paraphrasing, I am returning the money but its only a coincidence that I’m doing it on the same day Abramoff is pleading guilty. I had to laugh —

Related Links
Overview of Jack Abramoff
Justice Department Documents
Plea Agreement in the United States District Court Southern District of Florida on January 4, 2006
A Lobbyist’s Progress

Interesting Reads
Follow the Money
Lawmakers, Bush reject cash linked to lobbyist
Cleaning Up Congress
Business Feels a Chill on the Hill

Some say this isn’t a big scandal — but I think they are calling this one wrong. People are tired of the lobbyist buying their influence into legislation.

Final note, C-SPAN is a great American resource and the Senate hearing looking into the corruption is very interesting and great late night viewing for those of us who can’t sleep.