Christian Republican activist Ralph Reed doesn't think his ties to disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff will hurt his campaign for Georgia's lieutenant governor.

Reed led a coalition in Texas to shut down the Tigua Tribe's casino. He received $4.1 million from Abramoff and Abramoff's partner, Michael Scanlon, for his efforts.

Reed says he is morally opposed to gambling. But the money he received actually came from the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, a gaming tribe. "How was I supposed to know, if his own law firm didn't know?" Reed told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "[Abramoff] deceived his law firm, he deceived his clients and he deceived me.

Reed also organized efforts against the Jena Band of Choctaws, who are seeking a casino in Louisiana, and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in Alabama, who are looking to expand their gaming operation. The Coushattas opposed both efforts.

Get the Story:
Christian rightist seeks Georgia office (The Baltimore Sun 3/27)
Reed rallies supporters (The Atlanta Journal-Constituion 3/27)
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