Rep. Bob Ney (R-OH) — known as “Representative #1” in four plea deals in the Abramoff case — insisted yesterday, “I haven’t done anything wrong.” He’s actually just the victim of a major conspiracy involving the federal government, the media, Jack Abramoff, and the “liberal establishment”:
Justice Department:
While I am very saddened to see what has happened today, I also understand that Neil [Volz] has been under tremendous pressure from the government. … For a young man like Neil, it is virtually impossible to have the financial resources to adequately defend yourself against the federal government. [5/9/06]
Media:
The last several months have not been easy. … I have seen my name savaged by the national media. [1/27/06]
Liberal groups:
I have watched as the liberal establishment in Washington engaged in a coordinated smear campaign against me. [1/27/06]
Jack Abramoff:
I, like these Indian tribes and other members of Congress, was duped by Jack Abramoff. [10/18/05]