A liberal blogger, Lane Hudson, has filed suit with the Federal Election Commission concerning Fred Thompson’s testing the water period. He says Fred has too much money for just exploring the possibility of running for president:
Federal law allows potential candidates to raise money to travel, conduct polls and pay for other expenses related to “testing the waters” for a political campaign. During that exploratory period, a potential candidate does not have to file financial reports with the FEC.
The law prohibits anyone who is “testing the waters” from hoarding the money for use during his actual campaign. Potential candidates also cannot refer to themselves as candidates, can’t run ads that publicize their intention to campaign or take steps to qualify for the ballot in a primary or caucus state.
According to a financial report filed late last month, Thompson had raised nearly $3.5 million and had had spent $625,000.
Thompson’s non-official campaign now has fifteen days to response and then the FEC can “investigate further” or dismiss the suit. Thompson’s people say they are following the law.
