"Scandal Fallout May End Israel Trips"

[bloom]

Scandal Fallout May End Israel Trips

Matthew E. Berger
Jewish Telegraphic Agency

WASHINGTON
In the wake of the Jack Abramoff scandal, Jewish groups are closely watching plans to restrict lawmakers' lobbyist-sponsored travel, which could have a devastating impact on Israel trips that build support for the Jewish state in Congress.

Rules proposed in Congress this month could place stringent restrictions on how lawmakers travel at the expense of lobbyists and the organizations connected to them. The most aggressive plans call for restrictions on paying for legislators' hotel rooms and airfares, which could prevent them from traveling across the country to speak to interest groups such as American Jewish organizations.

...
Jewish groups have used trips to Israel as a key tool to help lawmakers, especially non-Jewish members of Congress, understand the significance of the Jewish state and its need for political support. Such trips have helped the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and other groups sensitize Congress to Israeli concerns.

"I don't think you can overstate how important it is," said Matt Brooks, executive director of the Republican Jewish Coalition. Jewish leaders say the trips change politicians' views on Israel.

http://www.jewishexponent.com/ViewArticle.asp?ArtID=2162

[PerceptionManagement]

1. Between AIPACs espionage, Abramoff and the Neocons,

I'd think they'd welcome the respite.

[applegrove]

2. I agree. This slicing and dicing of America & the world must shake

many Israelis to the core.