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Politics
DeLay's ties to Abramoff a focus of federal probe


Federal investigators have subpoenaed records that outline ties between embattled House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) and disgraced Washington lobbyist Jack Abramoff, The Houston Chronicle reports.

Abramoff is under investigation for allegations that he bilked six tribes out of more than $82 million. As the scandal unfolded, DeLay's name surfaced as a beneficiary of Abramoff's alleged schemes.

One included an overseas trip funded by the National Center for Public Policy Research, a Washington non-profit allied with conservative causes. Abramoff got the Mississippi Band of Choctaws to contribute $25,000 to the center -- money that was used to help pay DeLay's way, according The Wall Street Journal.

Later, DeLay inserted an Indian Country Today editorial into the Congressional record praising Choctaw Chief Philip Martin. He also voted against a gaming bill the tribe opposed.

Get the Story:
GOP leader's ties to lobbyist deepen his own controversy (The Houston Chronicle 4/13)
Luxury Travel Could Trip Up DeLay (The Wall Street Journal 4/13)
DeLay Seeks GOP Senators' Support (The Washington Post 4/13)
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DeLay looks to Republican faithful for support (USA Today / AP 4/13)

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