Why Alberto Gonzales Won't Recuse Himself

By now it seems pretty apparent that lobbyist Jack Abramoff's influence with the Republican Party was widespread. A photo recently released from the White House, shows Abramoff with President Bush.

A group of Democratic senators wrote a letter to Alberto Gonzales, the Attorney General of the United States, that he resign. Remember, Gonzales was Chief White House Counsel before he became Attorney General.

In spite of that, which, it seems to me, as well as others, presents at least the appearance of conflict of interest, if not in reality. But Alberto Gonzales doesn't think it is necessary.

Not necessary? Why would someone who is a member of the Republican Party, the party of the Religious Right and, one would therefore surmise, one of ethics, not care about a conflict of interest? Aren't fundamental Christians the most ethical of all people?

The reality is, scandals like Abramoff's influence in the party may embarrass them, but it doesn't concern them.

The only thing that is important to the Republicans, including George Bush, is making abortion illegal, and prohibiting marital rights for gays.

So how does this relate to Alberto Gonzales? Gonzales doesn't think there is a conflict of interest. Why? Because he doesn't care about this investigation. He cares about ensuring the "culture of life" becomes the standard.

The reality is this: Jack Abramoff got what he wanted, when he wanted. That should scare the heck out of the Republicans, and they should be scurrying to distance themselves from him and anyone in the administration he dealt with, and try to salvage their own careers. But they won't. Because they know that their supporters are only interested in two things -- banning abortion and banning gay marriage. And, I suppose, disintigrating the Democratic Party. Alberto Gonzales won't recuse himself -- he doesn't have to.