Rezko Convicted, RNC Focuses on Ties to Obama

by Deb Cupples |   Yesterday, Chicago businessman Antoin "Tony" Rezko was convicted of two counts of aiding and abetting bribery, two counts of money laundering, six counts of wire fraud,  and six counts of  mail fraud. (Chicago Tribune).  He was acquitted of four counts of aiding and abetting bribery, there counts of wire fraud, and one count of attempted extortion.

Rezko gained national attention, partly because of his ties to Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.  According to ABC, Rezko raised about $250,000 for Obama's campaigns for the Illinois legislature and the U.S. Senate. 

Obama -- who was not implicated in the Rezko case -- has assured the press that Rezko did not get any government-related benefits from Obama in return for Rezko's donations.  That aside, the Republican National Committee is now focusing on Obama's ties to Rezko.  Memeorandum has commentary.

Comments

[Danny]

I'm thinking that Obama did give Rezko kickbacks from his IL Senate office in the way of attention and access (and more will be revealed).

Hillary is doing the Democratic Party a big service by not dropping out but only suspending her campaign. Obama in my opinion will never be President - SO in the event that the Obama's have bigger trouble brewing under the surface than we can see at this point, Hillary will be able to step right back in to become the nominee.

"You may say I'm only a dreamer - but I'm not the only one."

[Danny]

I'm thinking that Obama did give Rezko kickbacks from his IL Senate office in the way of attention and access (and more will be revealed).

Hillary is doing the Democratic Party a big service by not dropping out but only suspending her campaign. Obama in my opinion will never be President - SO in the event that the Obama's have bigger trouble brewing under the surface than we can see at this point, Hillary will be able to step right back in to become the nominee.

"You may say I'm only a dreamer - but I'm not the only one."

[Danny]

huh - computer qlitch above.

[Buck Naked Politics]

Danny,

I suspect you're right about access. Most politicians claim that thousands in campaign funds don't buy favors but most admit that they buy access.

Deb