Why would the Washington post publish this article by Soloman if it is just a pack of lies?

Because they can't independently verify everything, perhaps? Like those faked photos from Iraq, news organisations aren't set up to second-guess the people who write their stories.

"Reid hung up the phone when questioned about the deal during an AP interview last week."

Don't blame him. If you asked for an interview and then called me a thief, I'd do the same.

Graham.