Former Rep. Richard Pombo (R-California), who won over many tribes during his time on Capitol Hill, is urging Rep. John Doolittle (R-California), who is under scrutiny for his ties to convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff, not to seek re-election.
The Hill newspaper cited "three well-placed Republican sources" who said Pombo is telling Doolittle to drop out of the race in order to keep the district in Republican hands. Doolittle narrowly won his seat in 2006.
Pombo lost in 2006 amid criticism of his environmental record and his ethics. He also was linked to a Massachusetts tribe that was one of Abramoff's clients.
Doolittle is holding a meeting tomorrow to discuss his upcoming plans.
Get the Story:GOP officials urging embattled Calif. Rep. Doolittle not to seek reele (The Hill 1/9)
Speculation meets Doolittle meeting (The Auburn Journal 1/8) Relevant Links:
Rep. John Doolittle - http://www.house.gov/doolittle Related Stories:
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Former Abramoff associate resigns from law firm (04/17)
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Ex-DeLay aide admits to fleecing wealthy tribes (4/4)
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