In Other News:
Roll Call reports that House Majority Leader John Boehner (R-OH) “has traveled on more exclusive golf outings, lobbyist-funded vacations and fundraising excursions to luxurious destinations than he has on return trips back to his Ohio district to visit constituents during this time period,” according to a report by Campaign for a Cleaner Congress. … Alaska Daily News reports that Rep. Don Young (R-AK), “With 31 campaign-related flights on private jets since 2001 … is in third place among House members.” … The Billings Gazette reports that Sen. Conrad Burns (R-MT) is denying accusations made by Jack Abramoff that Abramoff’s team got “every appropriation we wanted” claiming that Abramoff “is a pathological liar who has no credibility and belongs in jail.” … According to Roll Call, ex-ethics members Joel Hefley (R-CO) and Kenny Hulshof (R-MO) are teaming up to push for lobbying reforms. … According to The Hill, another Republican pair plans on pushing for reform. Reps. Chris Shays (R-CT) and Heather Wilson (R-NM), both vulnerable in the next election, are advocating the creation of an independent Office of Public Integrity. … Sen. George Voinovich (R-OH), as the chairman of the Senate Ethics Committee, is offended by the attempt to create independent enforcement, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer, and plans to fight to oppose it. Voinovich states that he will hold hearings on Jack Abramoff’s ties to Senators as soon as the Justice Department investigation is complete. … According to The Hill, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) proposed an amendment to lobbying reform legislation that would force members to disclose when they put a hold on nominations or legislation.