ANDY MARTIN QUESTIONS IRP POLICIES ON FEDERAL CAMPAIGN ASSISTANCE

ANDY MARTIN
The Right Republican for
U. S. Senator from Illinois/2008
Suite 4406, 30 E. Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60611-4723
Toll-free tel. (866) 706-2639
Toll-free fax (866) 707-2639
Web site: www.AndyforUSSenator.com
E-mail: AndyMart20@aol.com

May 17, 2007

Mr. Andy McKenna
Chairman
Illinois Republican arty
205 W. Randolph
Chicago, IL 60606
via fax (312) 201-0181


Re: Sauerberg campaign contribution/foundation

Dear Andy:

I spoke with an election law specialist in Washington and he made several points I felt I would pass on.

First, distributing press releases for a federal candidate is a service that is provided by many vendors. Thus, the use of the state IRP’s funds and facilities to distribute a press release for Steve Sauerberg clearly had a monetary value. That contribution has to be reported to federal authorities by Sauerberg. Otherwise, he would be in violation of federal election law.

Did the SCC authorize a federal election contribution to Sauerberg? If not, who did?

Second, there may be issues presented by having a state party provide services to some candidates, but not all, on a discriminatory basis. Has the party adopted a uniform, transparent policy on providing services or assistance to candidates?

I urge you to secure independent legal counsel so that the state party will not become embroiled in federal election law violations with Sauerberg. It seems to me that Sauerberg is being badly advised already. That is no excuse for the SCC to get dragged into Sauerberg’s machinations.

Finally, did you or have you obtained an independent legal opinion on the status of the Sauerberg Family Foundation before expressing an opinion on S’s status as a candidate?

I am happy to cooperate with you in any way; please get in touch if I can be of assistance.

Cordially,


ANDY MARTIN

AM:sp

cc: Steve Sauerberg
Associated Press