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Coushatta Tribe gave millions to lobbyists, campaigns
Wednesday, June 22, 2005

The Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana spent $32 million on disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff and made at least $300,000 in campaign contributions at his request, documents show.

The tribe hired Abramoff to lobby on Indian gaming and tribal issues. But tribal officials now question whether the services were worth the high fees.

They also wonder why the tribe made so many donations to Republican candidates and obscure Republican groups with little connection to Indian gaming or tribal issues. The Associated Press obtained documents detailing the tribe's contributions, including some to Rep. Tom DeLay (R-Texas) that were redirected to other GOP interests.

The Coushatta Tribe has since elected a new chairman who does not support Abramoff. Former chairman Lovelin Poncho decided not to seek re-election.

Get the Story:
AP: Abramoff's Web of Influence in Capitol (AP 6/22)
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Relevant Links:
Coushatta Tribe - http://www.coushattatribela.org

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