The Consistent Difference Between Dems and Repubs (Abramoff)

[berni_mccoy]

I've been reading up on the Abramoff scandal.

It seems to me that the organizations who were giving money to Abramoff were doing so in a 'usual' campaign finance method. Some of them, as is common among corporations making campaign donations, donated money to members of both parties. This is nothing unusual.

However, there is a key difference in the way that these groups gave to Dems and Repubs.

The Dems received money DIRECTLY from tribes and other groups according to the Campaign Finance Law.

The Repubs received money LAUNDERED through Abramoff via "charitable" organizations so the money would appear either to come from different sources or not violate limits of the Campaign Finance Law (or both). Abramoff in turn worked out legislative favors either the groups or the laundering organizations (duping one or the other) while he took a percentage. He basically brokered deals for these groups and laundered the money so that the Campaign Finance Laws could be subverted. His take was obviously under the table so this is why the IRS is all over him. And Abramoff NEVER brokered a legislative favor with Dems... only Repubs.

THAT is what I am seeing as the key difference. It is very convoluted and the press appears to be muddying the water further instead of making it clearer. I would hope that some paper publishes a "Difference Between Dem and Repubs" story so the public can get a clear picture.

Does this seem right to everyone or have I missed some facts here?

[ClassWarrior]

1. That helps my understanding. Thanks berni.

NGU.

[berni_mccoy]

2. The thing is, I'm not sure my take is accurate...

I'm looking for clarification, feedback here as to what others have taken from the published stories on it... I suppose I should also check the research forum on this topic.

[yodermon]

3. That is a great summary

so I am kicking and recommending.

[berni_mccoy]

4. Thanks... the waters are certainly getting muddy...

I think this type of clarification needs to be discussed, especially in the MSM.

[NI4NI]

5. Your summary is correct

Donations made to Democratic campaigns are legal and aboveboard. Bribes made to Republicans under the table are not.
Common Sense 101....Why would a rabid republican like Abramhoff who hates liberals in the first place bribe a Democrat member of the minority opposistion who are powerless when his Republican friends in the majority can easily pass or defeat any legislation or action of interest to Abramhoff?

[seabeyond]

6. i have been watching for a couple weeks now. this is what i am seeing

[berni_mccoy]

7. I've done some more digging...

Abramoff even used his wife to launder illegal donations... absolutely sick.