http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/news/politics/blog/2007/11/obama_on_meet_the_press.html<edit>
Russert next asked about the most controversial name of Obama's political career: "Tony Rezko, who is he?"
"He is a developer in Illinois. He was a friend of mine for over 10 years. He was a supporter of Democrats and Republicans back in Illinois. He was indicted recently for issues completely unrelated to me. But, obviously, it's a source of concern because not only a friend, but also a supporter of my campaign."
Noting that Rezko had helped raise or contribute about $168,000 -- an estimate Obama did not reject -- during the course of his political career, Russert asked about a controversial land transaction between Obama and Rezko involving property to expand the yard for his Kenwood neighborhood home.
"I have already acknowledged this was a mistake. Not only should I have not been involved with any business decision with him in particular, but with contributors generally," Obama said. "There was no evidence of wrong-doing. This was an above the board, market-based transaction."
Obama said he has not talked to Rezko "since he got in trouble with the law."
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