A Washington, D.C.-based watchdog group, Campaign Legal Center, has lodged a complaint alleging that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and the super PAC supporting his presidential bid, Never Back Down, violated federal campaign finance laws. The complaint focuses on the potential coordination between DeSantis’ campaign and the super PAC, raising concerns about the circumvention of federal contribution limits and reporting requirements. Never Back Down, which received over $80 million from a committee linked to DeSantis’ 2022 reelection campaign, has faced scrutiny for its expenditures and events featuring the governor.
Questions Surrounding Never Back Down
The super PAC, Never Back Down, attracted attention for its substantial financial support and its role in funding a ground operation in Iowa. Its close association with DeSantis and the utilization of resources for events with the governor prompted questions about potential legal boundaries. Recent internal turmoil within Never Back Down, marked by firings and departures, including strategist Jeff Roe, adds complexity to the situation.
Allegations of Illegal Coordination
Campaign Legal Center asserts that if Never Back Down coordinated its election spending with DeSantis’ campaign, it effectively becomes an extension of the campaign. Such coordination, if proven, could undermine federal laws and provide special interest backers, including corporations and wealthy individuals, with undue influence over policymaking. The complaint seeks examination by federal election regulators to ensure adherence to legal standards.
DeSantis Campaign Responds
In response, Andrew Romeo, a spokesperson for the DeSantis campaign, dismissed the complaint as “baseless” and politically motivated. He emphasized that the FEC requires verified information and asserted that opponents are resorting to unfounded rumors. Romeo expressed confidence that attempts to impede DeSantis would fail, echoing sentiments from past challenges.
Ongoing Scrutiny and Previous Complaints
Campaign Legal Center has previously filed five complaints against DeSantis or his donors in 2023. Four of these complaints, including the recent one, are with the FEC, while the fifth is with the Florida Commission on Ethics related to trips promoting DeSantis’ book. None of the complaints have been resolved. The accusations add to the broader national debate about the influence and regulations surrounding super PACs in the presidential election cycle.
Conclusion:
The complaint by Campaign Legal Center intensifies the scrutiny on Governor Ron DeSantis and his super PAC, Never Back Down, highlighting potential campaign finance violations and raising questions about the influence of special interest groups.
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