LIEBERMAN SUGARCOATED SHAM LOBBYING “REFORM” THAT PRESERVED ABRAMOFF-STYLE LOOPHOLES, THEN GOT EMBARRASSED BY MCCAIN & COMMON CAUSE

When the Senate passed the weak, loophole-riddled lobbying reform bill this year, Lieberman tried to sugarcoat the measure, claiming “This legislation contains very serious reform” and that it restores “the bonds of trust with our constituents [that have been] frayed” from the Abramoff scandal. But as the Washington Post reported, “spokesmen for government watchdog groups and several lawmakers who were active in pushing ethics rule changes expressed disappointment in the Senate’s effort.” Sen. John McCain voted against the measure, saying “It’s extremely weak.” Among other loopholes, the bill Lieberman trumpeted does not restrict lavish trips funded by private special interests – trips that were at the center of the Abramoff scandal. The Associated Press reported that Common Cause ridiculed Lieberman’s proposal as a sham. “Even as the Justice Department investigates possible corruption of at least half a dozen members of Congress, the Senate today is refusing to acknowledge that Congress — in the eyes of the public — has failed to police itself,” said Common Cause President Chellie Pingree. [Sources: Washington Post, 3/29/06]