The List

18 January 2006

Dear Sen. Feingold,

I watched the hearings on the nomination of Judge Samuel Alito and you recived a list from the nomiee stating who had prepared him. I have seen in the media about Sen. Graham's presence at one of these prep sessions. I have seen accusations of an ethics violation on the blogs. And, what led to my call this morning, was that someone I know reported that your office was saying that Sen. Graham was on the list. I asked this and I was told by the individual that answered the phone Sen. Graham was on the list, when I pressed further and asked weather he had seen the list he said no, but I understand Graham is on the list. Most people are not going to ask the second question taking from granted that everyone in the office saw the list. I know this isn't true. I aske d to be transfered to an individual who had seen the list, most likely Mr. Schiff, and he wouldn't do it. He insisted I call Sen. Graham's office and I already had and did not get an answer, I will not call again until I see substantive proof that Graham was one of the handlers for this nomination or is on the list. He has admitted to having a meeting with the nominee and other officials that Thursday, but says, and I beleive him when he says that the meeting was regarding his concerns about wiretaps and not prparation.

I request that the list of handlers be relased. ThinkProgress has posted a list, but Sen. Graham is not on the list they have posted. It is important to get all relevant information out about this so the public can make an informed decision on question with evidence in hand. I definitely want to question because I am a supporter and admirer of Sen. Graham's and I would be extremely disappointed if he did anything imprper, however I am willing to look at evidence that gives me grounds to ask questions. Release the list, make a statement, file a complaint with the ethics committee, but please what ever action you take stop those in your office who have not seen the list from saying that Sen. Graham is on the list or at least they shoudl tell people that they have not seen the list and just understand or have heard that he is because statements made to people who do not ask further questions get reported as gospel truth and make other that may have done nothing wrong look dirty. This is expecially importnatn in this time of scandals. Sen. Graham praised ytou at the hearings, and tend to agree, that you are ethical and have been a tireless fighter for ethics in government.

Thank you.