The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
By Jim Galloway
Published on: 12/18/05
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/1205/18metreed.htmlAustin, Texas -- Paynter, a lobbyist for Southern Baptists in Texas, says she's never met Ralph Reed. But she thinks she recognizes his work.
An inquiry would come at an inopportune time for Reed. The former head of the Christian Coalition and political strategist is a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor in Georgia, his first run for office. He has already faced unwelcome questions about his work with Abramoff.
This month, three government watchdog groups called on an Austin prosecutor to investigate Reed, arguing that he violated a strict Texas law requiring lobbyists to register with the state. Travis County Attorney David Escamilla, a Democrat, said he will decide in the next few weeks whether to open a criminal investigation.