Pressure Mounts On Abramoff

As we mentioned yesterday, with the pending plea deal by Abramoff business partner Adam Kidan, the pressure on Abramoff to cut a deal for himself is mounting quickly.  In today's Washington Post, defense lawyers for all sides seem to agree.

The Post story also makes clear that Kidan is agreeing to testify against both Abramoff and Rep. Bob Ney.

Kidan, who has known Abramoff since their student days when they were members of the College Republicans, has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy and wire fraud in connection with the purchase of the SunCruz fleet in the fall of 2000.

"Adam will testify against Abramoff and Ney if he is given an opportunity to do so," said Joseph Conway, an attorney for Kidan.

 Here's what Scanlon's lawyer has to say:

Stephen L. Braga, Scanlon's attorney, said: "That's a very surprising development that will only increase pressure on Mr. Abramoff to cut a deal."

And Abramoff's lawyers sure weren't issuing any categorical denials that plea discussions are under way.

Neal Sonnett, a Florida lawyer representing Abramoff in the SunCruz case, declined to say whether his client is in plea negotiations with the government. Andrew Blum, a spokesman for Abramoff's Washington attorneys, also declined to comment on whether plea negotiations are underway.

Rep. Tom DeLay must feel like he has a bullseye on his back.