Saturday, August 30, 2008

Term limits would mean giving back the money


Under campaign finance rules, candidates running for citywide seats - mayor, controller and public advocate - can accept a maximum contribution of $4,950.

If those candidates opt for another term in the Council, they can only accept a limit of $2,750 - and must return the difference to the donor.


Change in term limits risk war chests

Quinn's campaign aide declined to comment on the possibility of a refund, and Katz's spokesman said, "We are not going to go into any hypothetical situations." At least one councilman said parting with the extra cash could be painful.

"Raising money is perhaps the most difficult part of being an elected official, which makes returning money something no one looks forward to," said Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Queens), who is running for Queens borough president.

The contribution limit for borough presidents is $3,850, meaning Vallone and other Council members who have collected money for a borough president's race would also have to return cash.

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