DeWine criticized for Ney fundraiser

Sen. Mike DeWine got some heat Friday from Democrats over his plans to attend a fundraiser this weekend for Rep. Bob Ney, who has been linked to the unfolding scandal surrounding former Washington lobbyist Jack Abramoff.

Abramoff has pleaded guilty to using a free golf trip to Scotland and other gifts in an attempt to bribe Ney and others for official favors. Ney has denied any wrongdoing and has complied with a Justice Department subpoena for documents.

So Democrats called on DeWine to cancel his appearance at Ney's fundraiser.

"The people of Ohio are tired of the scandal, corruption and cronyism they see in Columbus and Washington," Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee spokesman Karl Frisch said. "Sen. DeWine’s decision to raise money for one of the principle architects of that corruption is proof positive that he’s part of the problem. Mike DeWine should cancel the fundraiser and join with Democrats in fighting for the return of ethics, honesty and accountability to our government."

DeWine told the Enquirer that he's known Ney for a long time and he supports him. He said he was not planning to cancel his appearance at the fundraiser.

"I've known Bob Ney - he’s been a friend of mine - since he was in the Legislature and I was lieutenant governor," DeWine said. "He and I worked on things back then. He’s a friend of mine."

By the way, recognize the name "Karl Frisch"? Frisch formerly worked as campaign spokesman for Democrat Paul Hackett, an Indian Hill lawyer and Iraq war veteran who dropped out of Ohio's U.S. Senate primary earlier this year.