Criminal probes entangle numerous Bush fund-raisers

[Algorem]

8 Pioneers and Rangers face wide range of allegations

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051218/NEWS09/512180354

Tom Noe is not the only top Bush fund-raiser under criminal investigation this year. He shares that distinction with seven others.

Federal and state authorities are investigating the Bush Pioneers and Rangers, individuals who raised at least $100,000 or $200,000 for President Bush's re-election, for bribery, money laundering, stock manipulation, and extortion.

Democrats have said that as investigations continue, there will be "enough for their own prison softball team."

"The Republican culture of corruption, it knows no bounds. It's a deterioration of values." said Amaya Smith, a spokesman for the Democratic National Committee...



A BLADE INVESTIGATION
Bush fund-raisers cash in by giving — then receiving

http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051218/NEWS09/512180341


By JIM TANKERSLEY,
JOSHUA BOAK, AND
CHRISTOPHER D. KIRKPATRICK
BLADE STAFF WRITERS


First of three parts


President Bush's corporate champions see the spoils of his administration in coal. And timber. And credit-card payments, Afghan electric lines, Japanese bank transfers, and fake crab.

America's business leaders supplied more than $75 million to return Mr. Bush to the White House last year - and he has paid dividends.

Bush Administration policies, grand and obscure, have financially benefited companies or lobbying clients tied to at least 200 of the President's largest campaign fund-raisers, a Blade investigation has found. Dozens more stand to gain from Bush-backed initiatives that recently passed or await congressional approval.

The investigation examined targeted tax breaks, regulatory changes, pro-business legislation, high-profile salaried appointments, and federal contracts...

[babylonsister]

1. I hope they're all investigated. I guess

raising $100-200,000 for the reselection of dimson is small potatoes compared to the multi-million dollar 'benefits' awarded to these party loyalists. But 200 separate entities? The mind boggles...