Ethics rules to be put to test in St. Paul, too

0 Comments | USA TODAY, August, 2008 | by Matt Kelley

Republican lawmakers have worked to distance themselves from the scandals that, in part, cost them control of Congress in the 2006 elections, supporting stricter ethics rules meant to end lobbyist-sponsored parties, travel and gifts.

Yet like the Democrats in Denver, it's party time for Republicans next week during the four-day national convention at the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul. Republican members of Congress, other elected officials and those who want access to them can drink cocktails and nibble appetizers at scores of receptions, relax in hospitality suites and skyboxes and take in concerts from the likes of the Charlie Daniels Band and Smash Mouth.

Rep. Mike Castle, R-Del., who has sponsored several ethics bills in recent years, says he looks...