Prometheus 6

Questions raised about Alaska lawmakers, oil
By Steve Quinn, Associated Press

JUNEAU, Alaska — One former state representative is guilty of bribery. Three more await trial on similar charges. The state's lone congressman is under federal investigation for corruption. A U.S. senator just had his home searched by the FBI.

This is not exactly the Alaska that Vic Fischer had in mind when he helped draft the state's constitution more than 50 years ago.

"Greed is rampant," said Fischer. "The character of the politicians has changed a lot. I'm very disgusted."

The wave of government corruption allegations has brought national attention to a state that touts its beauty and rugged landscapes, wild salmon and spectacular Northern Lights.

Fischer, current lawmakers and political analysts say the cases are evidence that the state is reaping what it sowed from years of lax oversight and a cozy relationship with the oil industry.

The relationship between lawmakers and the oil industry is a central issue in an investigation that stretches from Juneau to Washington, D.C. First, the former state lawmakers were accused of accepting bribes or extorting favors in exchange for oil tax votes favorable to the industry.

Soon, the Justice Department began looking into the relationship between the contractor VECO Corp. and Alaska's congressional delegation. Earlier this week, federal agents raided the home of U.S. Sen. Ted Stevens, who is under scrutiny for his close relationship with a contractor who oversaw his home renovation project and won millions in federal contracts.

The common denominator in all but one case is former oil field services executive Bill Allen, who recently pleaded guilty to bribing lawmakers who were considering an oil tax bill. He remains at the center of emerging corruption probes.