The LA Times has an interesting story about -- surprise! -- cronyism and influence-peddling concerning no-bid contracts in Iraq. As stated in the story, "Shaw's actions are the latest to raise concerns that senior Republican officials working in Washington and Iraq have used the rebuilding effort in Iraq to reward associates and political allies." I anticipate more such stories to come out in the next few months (assuming this affirms that the press has awoken from their 3+ year nap!).