The Washington Post reports today that the Bush Administration’s chief architect of procurement policy, i.e., contracting, was arrested for dancing in the dark with Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff….
David H. Safavian, 38, worked just steps away from the White House at the Office of Management and Budget in the Old Executive Office Building. Before resigning Friday, he was consumed with relief projects for Hurricane Katrina.
He’s an old buddy and lobbying partner of Grover Norquist’s, another fellow wrapped up with Abramoff.

Abramoff and his two behind-the-scenes career partners, Grover Norquist and Ralph Reed, organized the rise of “DeLay, Inc.,” by coercing corporations and their lobbyists (the “K Street Project”) and whipping up religious fanatics (the Christian Coalition) for the money and muscle that bought DeLay his dictatorship over Congress.

I recall covering Safavian’s Senate confirmation. One of his alleged strong points was his experience in working with Congress — he was a staffer at one point in his short career. Apparently, Safavian was busy using that experience for the benefit of Abramoff as well, according the The Washington Post:

On July 22, 2002, Abramoff sent Safavian an e-mail with a proposed draft letter that “at least two members of Congress” could send to GSA supporting the lease, according to the affidavit. “Does this work, or do you want it to be longer?” Abramoff asked.