Good For Grassley

Nixon did what no Democrat could do - he went to China. Now Iowa's Charles Grassley is again doing what no Democrat could do - take on big religion.
Senate Panel Probes 6 Top Televangelists
Sen. Charles Grassley Asks Ministries To Turn Over Financial Records Within One Month

CBS News has learned Sen. Charles Grassley of Iowa, the ranking Republican on the Senate Finance Committee, is investigating six prominent televangelist ministries for possible financial misconduct.

Letters were sent Monday to the ministries demanding that financial statements and records be turned over to the committee by December 6th.

According to Grassley's office, the Iowa Republican is trying to determine whether or not these ministries are improperly using their tax-exempt status as churches to shield lavish lifestyles.

The six ministries identified as being under investigation by the committee are led by: Paula White, Joyce Meyer, Creflo Dollar, Eddie Long, Kenneth Copeland and Benny Hinn. Three of the six - Benny Hinn, Kenneth Copeland and Creflo Dollar - also sit on the Board of Regents for the Oral Roberts University.

This is something that should have been done a long time ago. These so called ministers have become multi millionaires by taking money from those who can least afford it. I have to wonder if this sudden interest is because there are questions about whether these millionaire preacher/business types can continue to deliver votes to the GOP.

Update
Bull Dog Pundit points out the downside

The one that interests me the most is my main man Benny Hinn? Have you ever caught his “This Is Your Day” show? The dude has cured everything from the common cold to cancer, merely by putting his hands on people and demanding that the “devil be gone!!!!”

I mean, if they take him off the air I’m going to be disappointed because when he’s on top of his game, which he usually is, Benny Hinn is the best thing going on TV.

His latest scam was asking people donated to fund his purchase of “Dove 1″ a luxury aircraft to spread the Lord’s word. How does he expect to save souls flying coach?

I have to say I view televangelists as some of the best entertainment on TV, especially Benny.