Dick Cheney to Campaign for Tom DeLay

from Newsmax

Normally a criminal indictment would turn any elected leader into a political pariah.

But the White House is signaling that is doesn't think the indictment filed against House Majority Leader Tom DeLay two months ago is legitimate - by sending Vice President Dick Cheney to campaign for DeLay's reelection.

The Washington Times reports that on Dec. 5, Cheney "is scheduled to speak at what promises to be a lucrative re-election fundraiser in Houston" for the Texas Republican, who was sidelined as House Majority Leader by the indictment.

Cheney's appearance on DeLay's behalf is proof that the lawmaker, who faces two felony charges in Texas, still has powerful allies - the Times said.

One probably reason for continued White House support [aside from the DeLay's stellar performance as Majority Leader]: His indictment was based on a law that wasn't even on the books when he supposedly broke it.

Some of the highest-ranking Republicans in Texas are also sticking by DeLay. Gov. Rick Perry and Sens. Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn, are listed as chairmen for the event.