“Nevada Sen. John Ensign’s wealthy parents gave his mistress and her family $96,000, the conservative lawmaker revealed Thursday, an admission that further darkened his once-bright career and caused even allies to question his continued effectiveness as a U.S. senator. The gifts to Cynthia Hampton; her husband, Doug; and two of their children were made ‘out of concern for the well-being of long-time family friends during a difficult time,’ said a statement from Ensign’s attorney. The money was paid in $12,000 increments in April 2008, the month that both Hamptons left Ensign’s employ.” (07/10/09)