Rep. Bilbray

Congressman Brian Bilbray says he did not realize that the Congressional Cigar Association, which he sponsored, is composed mostly of lobbyists and, rather than being a social group, has become a way the lobbyists could gain access to lawmakers and their staff members. Challenger Francine Busby is among those calling for an ethics investigation into the matter. The San Diego Union-Tribune has called for Bilbray to “disavow the group and formally disassociate himself from it.”

UPDATE: Rep. Bilbray has defended his sponsorship of the group, and said “they played by the rules” in response to criticism. See North County Times story after the jump.

Read more:

Bilbray defends cigar group
Says Congressional association followed the rules
North County Times, July 27, 2010

EDITORIAL: What is he smoking?
Bilbray should disavow congressional cigar group
The San Diego Union-Tribune, July 24, 2010

Rival calls for review of Bilbray cigar club
Democratic challenger Busby questions the group’s purpose
The San Diego Union-Tribune, July 24, 2010

Congress has clubs for golf, cigars, Bible study
Staff associations require sponsor, and Rep. Bilbray serves that role for one
The San Diego Union-Tribune, July 24, 2010

Bilbray lauded by cigar maker
Fla. man looking for allies in D.C.
The San Diego Union-Tribune, July 23, 2010

Bilbray-backed House group filled with lobbyists
Congressman says he had no knowledge
The San Diego Union-Tribune, July 22, 2010

And the story that originally brought the issue to light:

Congressional Cigar Association is Front for Lobbyists
Sponsored by Rep. Bilbray
Huffington Post, July 21, 2010