To the Point
IRS Challenges Churches that Preach Politics
The Internal Revenue Service has warned churches that political involvement can cost them their tax exemptions. How much involvement is too much? Is the IRS playing politics, too? Why do we have a religious tax exemption? Plus, the House Government Reform Committee issues its report on the Abramoff-White House connection, and uncertainty over whether President Lula da Silva can beat another political scandal in Brazil.
By Lawrence O'Donnell • • 1h 0m ListenThe Internal Revenue Service has warned churches that political involvement can cost them their tax exemptions. How much involvement is too much? Is the IRS playing politics, too? Why do we have a religious tax exemption? Plus, the House Government Reform Committee issues its report on the Abramoff-White House connection, and uncertainty over whether President Lula da Silva can beat another political scandal in Brazil.
In this episode
3 storiesReport Finds Extensive Abramoff-White House Contacts
The House Committee on Government Reform today released the latest report on former lobbyist Jack Abramoff , who has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to bribe public officials. The report documents 485 contacts between Abramoff's firm and the Bush White House.
Read the story6 minIRS Challenges Churches that Preach Politics
The IRS has challenged a liberal church in Pasadena, California because of an anti-war sermon preached by a former rector two days before the 2004 presidential election. All Saints is the largest Episcopal church west of the Mississippi and a solid supporter of liberal causes.
Read the story34 minWhat Will Brazilian Election Mean for US, Latin America?
Brazil's President, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva , has morphed from a fiery union leader to a moderate contrast with Venezuela's Hugo Chavez . As President, he's managed to help the poor without soaking the rich or damaging the economy.
Read the story8 min
