Let's face it, the Gov't at all levels has become, in the last 20 years or so, about as corrupt as many Third World Countries. IMO The Abramoff thing is just the tip of the iceberg and it infects both sides of the aisle. Short of serious revolution I really don't know how it gets corrected and I'm serious.
Funny, I thought putting forth a State's interests in Washington were the responsibility of it's Representatives and Senators.
The Senators and Representatives put forth the States interest in so far as trying to make sure their state gets its share of pork. That way their constituents are happy and they get re-elected.
But thats not where the fun starts.
The fun starts when the lobbyists come through the door with handfulls of money wanting federal funds. Trips to nice vacation spots, Golfing trips, use of corporate jets, women--Yes women, Good booze and great meals.
Now evidently Richardson dosnt think his boys are sending enough pork home so he hires these people to shore them up.What he pays these folks isnt half what it will cost in the end, when he gets their expense accounts.