Harry Reid: If we can beat mob, we can fight DeLay-style politics

[Rose Siding]

Experience in Las Vegas similar to D.C. corruption

By SEN. HARRY REID


In 1977, I was appointed chairman of the Nevada Gaming Commission. It was a difficult time for the gaming industry and Las Vegas, which were being overrun by organized crime. To that point in my life, I had served in the Nevada Assembly and even as lieutenant governor, but nothing prepared me for my fight with the mob.

Over the next few years, there would be threats on my life, bribes, FBI stings and even a car bomb placed in my family's station wagon. It was a terrifying experience, but at the end of the day, we cleaned up Las Vegas and ushered in a new era of responsibility.

My term on the gaming commission came to an end in 1981, and when it did, I thought I had seen such corruption for the last time. Unfortunately, that has not been the case. It is not quite the mafia of Las Vegas in the 1970s, but what is happening today in Washington is every bit as corrupt and the consequences for our country have been severe.

Our nation's capital has been overrun by organized crime — Tom DeLay-style.

The gangsters are the lobbyists, cronies and lawmakers who have banded together and abused their power to serve their own self-interest. The casinos are the Capitol, which has had its doors thrown open for special interests to waltz in and help themselves, and the victims, of course, are the American people.

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http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/editorial/outlook/3584174.html

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. Good analogy

It also shows that Reid won't be afraid to fight against the repukes!

[On the Road]

2. Wow -- What a Meme

deadly serious, hopeful, and empowering at the same time. I like that.

[Dr.Phool]

3. K&R. Not much difference between Pukes and Mobsters.

[Elidor]

4. In Delay's hometown paper, no less!

:bounce:

Take that, Tom. He called you a hood in front of all your neighbors.