Posted on Wed, Dec. 21, 2005
Brownback giving away funds from tribes, defense contractor
SAM HANANELAssociated PressWASHINGTON - Sen. Sam Brownback is giving away $42,000 in campaign donations connected to indicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff, a move several other lawmakers have taken in recent days to avoid the appearance of undue influence.
The Kansas Republican, who is weighing a presidential bid, is also giving up a separate $5,000 contribution from a defense contractor at the center of ex-Rep. Randy "Duke" Cunningham's bribery case, Brownback spokesman Brian Hart said Wednesday.
"Sen. Brownback has always preferred to either return or donate to charity any campaign or leadership funds that even have the appearance of impropriety," Hart said.
Brownback's now-defunct Restore America Political Action Committee received the $42,000 in 2002 from four American Indian tribes represented by Abramoff, according to Federal Election Commission records.
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http://www.montereyherald.com/mld/montereyherald/news/politics/13459254.htm