National PACs in Virginia
By: Brian
Published On: 2/2/2005 2:00:00 AM
Virginia?s statewide elections in November are shaping up to be very interesting. With only one other state (New Jersey, a "blue" state) electing a new governor this fall, most people's eyes -- and the political parties' money -- will be focused on Virginia. This alone would make Virginia a race to watch.
However, Virginia is unique in another way. In Virginia, state law does not limit the amount of campaign contributions a political advocacy group can make. These advocacy groups are commonly labeled "527s" because of the section in the Tax Code under which they register. Further, unlike in the last presidential election where federal law prevented such 527s from working directly with the parties and candidates, Virginia does not have a similar law. Thus, advocacy groups will be able to organize directly with the candidate and state party officials.
How is this good news for Lt. Governor Kaine? One of the most recognized 527s has expressed possible interest in working in Virginia on behalf of Kaine.
Steve Rosenthal, chief executive officer of the anti-Bush Americans Coming Together, said the idea of working in off-year state or local elections might appeal to the organization.
When the Kaine campaign was asked whether they would be aligning with any 527s, the communications director, Mo Elleithee, said, "Kaine is building his own operation to deliver his message." However, a group as large and strong as A.C.T. wanting to help might be hard to turn down.
The fact that national groups, like A.C.T., are expressing so much interest in Virginia?s election is evidence of its importance.
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