It must be a little strange for Alaskans these days.  Their great state, widely known for it's beautiful scenery, fishing industry, and oil, is in danger of becoming known for an altogether less appealing reason - corrupt politicians.

Consider the following:

• Sen. Ted Stevens (R) is under federal investigation for a couple different situations, including allegations of accepting bribes from an energy company.
  
• Rep. Don Young (R) has been drawn into the same investigation.  His long ties with uber-lobbyist Jack Abramoff have also earned him unwanted attention.
  
• Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R) recently came under fire for her purchase of a vacant lot from a campaign supporter for well below market value.

For those of you keeping score, these three comprise the entire Alaskan Congressional delegation.  Throw in a bunch of state legislators busted for corruption recently, and it all makes for a rather embarassing situation.

Yesterday the home of Senator Ted Stevens (R-AK) was raided by FBI and IRS agents in connection with their public corruption investigation that has rocked the Alaskan political establishment.

Senator Stevens is continuing to hold his comments until, he says, "after the investigation."  That will probably be a good long while, and given the way this case has been developing so far, there are no guarantees that the investigation won't end in criminal charges.  Reps. Doolittle (R-CA) and Renzi (R-AZ) welcome you to the club, Senator!