BY SANDY THEIS
Enquirer Columbus Bureau
COLUMBUS -- Ohio Treasurer Ken Blackwell took a shot at his fellow Republicans Monday -- and stood up for increased campaign finance disclosure -- when he highlighted a loophole in the GOP's much-touted campaign finance reform law of 1995.
The law requires statewide candidates to file monthly finance reports, beginning with funds raised in July. For example, the total raised in July must be disclosed the first week of August, the total raised in August must be disclosed the first week in September. The reports continue through the November election.
Because of an oversight, the law does not require candidates to disclose money raised in June until the month of October.
Although other statewide candidates said they simply plan to include their June totals in their July reports, Mr. Blackwell held a press conference to announce his June collections: $56,320. "The best disinfectant for campaign finance questions is the bright light of disclosure," he said. He urged the other statewide candidates to disclose their June collections.
Mr. Blackwell is running for secretary of state, the official charged with collecting and auditing campaign finance reports. The current secretary of state, Bob Taft, is the GOP nominee for governor. He has taken credit for helping shape the campaign finance law.
While shying away from directly attacking Mr. Taft, Mr. Blackwell indirectly took shots at his longtime rival by pointing out the problem.
When asked if Mr. Taft or other GOP leaders suggested he mute his criticisms, Mr. Blackwell replied, "No. That doesn't work anyway."
Parts of the law have been struck down by the courts.
The 10th Ohio District Court of Appeals has said the Republican-controlled General Assembly overstepped its bounds when it banned unions from using dues for political purposes, banned voluntary payroll deductions for members of public employee unions and restricted who could be solicited for political contributions.
Last week, the state's highest court, by a 4-3 vote, refused to hear the case, allowing the appellate ruling to stand.
Columbus attorney Don McTigue filed the lawsuit on behalf of the United Auto Workers and the Ohio Education Association, two of Ohio's most powerful unions.
"The General Assembly was attempting to make it extremely difficult for unions to raise money . . . and silence their voices," Mr. McTigue said.
Attorney General Betty Montgomery has asked the court to reconsider the case.
