Here's something I'm not clear on.

Jack Abramoff has totally clammed up about his starring role in his own eponymous scandal. But what about Ralph Reed, who's certainly up for supporting actor billing in the Abramoff debacle?

Reed was the rousting agent in the Abramoff gambling protection racket. With Abramoff's direction and financial support, Reed would whip up local opposition to gambling. Then Abramoff et al. would swoop in to offer their lobbying services to protect the casino owners from Reed.

As I said, Abramoff isn't answering questions, as is his right. But what about Reed?

Reed is actually running for something: Lt. Governor of Georgia.

Reed's dealings with Abramoff suggest not only that he is corrupt but that his morality issue grandstanding is utterly cynical. But as near as I can tell he's yet to take much of a hit for any of this back in Georgia.

What gives?