Democrats file FEC complaint against RNC chairman Steele and Michigan GOP

No other state received a comparable amount from the RNC during that time span; Delaware was the next highest at $129,800 in cash and in-kind equipment. A Republican strategist in Michigan said there have been no races or other activity that would prompt the national party to transfer such a large amount of money to the state party. On the contrary, he said that many local and county party officials have been upset the lack of financial support from Weiser and the state party.

“There’s no specific activity going on in Michigan right now that would suggest that this type of money is being spent,” the strategist said.

Brewer said the complaint was sent to the FEC this afternoon and that he expects it to prompt an investigation. FEC spokesman Christian Hilland said the commission has not yet formally received the filing but according to the agency’s web site, once the commission receives the complaint it will send a copy to the accused, giving them 15 days to respond. The commission then evaluates the complaint, voting on whether to proceed with an investigation. If the commission finds that the RNC or Michigan GOP violated the law they could face fines in proportion to the amount of money that was illegally re-routed.

The Daily Caller reported last week that 15 donors from Michigan maxed out on the final day of 2009; Brewer said his staff uncovered two more names that they believe are involved. The Republican donors listed in the complaint include: Albert and Paula Berriz, Calvin College President Gaylen Byker, Thomas and Vicki Celani, Michael and Kellie Ferrantino, Michael and Susan Jandernoa, John and Nancy Kennedy, Robert and Joyce Lynas, William Parfet, Robert Thompson, and William and Vivienne Young.

The Daily Caller has been unable to reach the donors, who either declined to speak or did not return messages asking for comment.

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