CLARION LEDGER ARTICLE BRINGS CAMPAIGN FINANCE VIOLATIONS TO LIGHT IN JACKSON MAYOR’S RACE
A Clarion Ledger article was published today highlighting violations to campaign finance laws in the mayoral race. With the exception of businessman Jonathan Lee and current mayor Harvey Johnson, the entire field of candidates failed to submit campaign finance reports. Upon qualifying for the race, candidates receive an informational packet containing all legal requirements for running for mayor.
These requirements, as stated in the packet and according Mississippi laws, state that each candidate is required to complete and submit a statement of intent to run for office and statement of economic interest no more than ten days after qualifying. Campaign finance reports were also due on January 31, 2013 for all funds raised or disbursed during calendar year 2012. Finance reports are required of any candidate and/or candidate’s committee that has raised or disbursed over $200.
“The lack of compliance with these simple campaign finance laws is disappointing,” said Tyrone Hendrix, campaign manager for the Jonathan Lee for Mayor campaign. “At best it shows a lack of leadership; at worst it indicates these campaigns have something to hide.”
“The majority of donations to the Jonathan Lee campaign in 2012 came from individuals and were less than $200. Since January 1, 2013, our campaign has received over 175 contributions. These individual contributions are reflective of the bottom-up, grassroots way in which the Lee campaign has been run. These donations are from the people of Jackson who are hungry for new leadership and for change.” added Hendrix.
Jonathan Lee Campaign Release
3/5/13
Magnolia Tribune
