Fleas

The National Republican Congressional Committee, already lagging behind its Democratic counterpart in fundraising this year, has nearly $1 million less in the bank than it thought because of an alleged embezzlement scheme from its former treasurer.

The FBI began an investigation in February to determine how much former treasurer Christopher J. Ward, who previously did work for the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth, embezzled from the NRCC. On Thursday the committee released more details on the investigation, indicating he may have moved as much as $1 million from campaigns he ran into his own account.

"The evidence we have today indicated we have been deceived and betrayed for a number of years by a highly respected and trusted individual," said Rep. Tom Cole (R-Okla.), the NRCC chairman.

Lie down with dogs...