Politics

Gov. Whitmer collects $550k in contributions above normal giving limits in response to recall efforts

by on

More in Politics:

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s reelection campaign has amassed a war chest of $12.6 million, including over $3 million in contributions above the state’s normal giving limits. Despite raising more money than usually allowed, the Michigan governor has pointed to state fundraising rulings regarding spending limits when the governor is facing active recall efforts.

On Monday, Michigan candidates had to file new fundraising disclosures, covering the previous three months. The incumbent Democrat’s report revealed her campaign has continued a practice of accepting larger than normally allowed donations from individuals. The Democratic governor continued to use an exemption to collect more than the individual $7,150 limit because of longshot efforts to recall her from office.

Whitmer’s team has said she can do this because of efforts to recall her and longstanding rulings from the Secretary of State’s office that candidates facing active recalls can raise unlimited amounts of money. Eleven Republicans have formed candidate committees to run against or explore a challenge to Whitmer [Tucson.com].

“The campaign is grateful for the support of Michiganders in every single county as we work to reelect Gov. Whitmer so that she can continue to fight for Michigan families, small businesses and communities,” said Preston Elliott, Whitmer’s campaign manager.

Gustavo Portela, communications director of Michigan Republican Party, slammed the excess contributions. “Our candidates would have raised even more if they were given the opportunity to play by the same corrupt rules as Gretchen Whitmer,” Portela said Monday. “We’ll continue to fight for fairness and give our candidates an even playing field” [Detroit News].

ARTICLE: ISABELLA FLORES

MANAGING EDITOR: CARSON CHOATE

PHOTO CREDITS: BRIDGEMI.COM

Leave a Reply