Outgoing Sen. Ben Nighthorse Campbell (R-Colo.) is refusing donations from tribes that were pledged to him during the recent National Indian Gaming Association conference.

At NIGA, Campbell said he was transferring about $800,000 in existing campaign funds to the Nighthorse Foundation. He said the non-profit foundation would be used for scholarships for Indian youth.

Indian Country Today immediately reported Campbell's announcement, including a pledge from NIGA to donate $10,000. Another donation of $5,000 was pledged.

But when The Denver Post questioned the arrangement in light of concerns over non-profit fundraising activities by members of Congress, Campbell's office refuted ICT's account. But now his office admitted the story was accurate and says Campbell has refused the NIGA-related donations because the foundation hasn't been created yet even though NIGA has been asking for donations. His office also says he will use some of the $800,000 to help re-elect George W. Bush and other Republicans.

Campbell is retiring from the Senate.

Get the Story:
Campbell office back-peddles, admits Indian Country Today accurate (Indian Country Today 4/29)
Nighthorse fund drew tribe pledges (The Denver Post 4/28)
U.S. SENATOR BEN NIGHTHORSE CAMPBELL HONORED BY NATIONAL INDIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION (NIGA 4/5)