Director Gibney here presents a detailed overview of the rise and fall of lobbyist Jack Abramoff Early in his life, Abramoff combined elements of conservative Judaism, free-market economics, and conservative politics with ruthlessness and a willingness to skirt rules to achieve his goals. As a lobbyist, he forged ties with powerful individuals such as Ralph Reed, Karl Rove, Grover Norquist, and, especially, former representative Tom DeLay (R-TX). DeLay and Abramoff found new and questionable ways to raise campaign funds for like-minded Republicans and Democrats-unfortunately, at the expense of vulnerable people. Garment makers based in the Northern Mariana Islands contributed heavily and in return received protection to operate factories staffed by workers who were treated as indentured servants.
展开▼
