Entenza fined by campaign finance board

I hope the lobbyist who sent the contribution sends another check in excess of $500 or it seems particularly legalistic to fine only the campaign that accepted the check.

Better to error to the side of keeping the appearance of high ethics than banning/and or refusing all contributions from lobbyists.

You failed to mention that Anderson, who has been a registered lobbyist since 2001, also was fined $500. One would think that in eight years as General Mills’ designated lobbyist this guy would know the law by now. And why is it relevant that Anderson is “active in the LGBT community”? This is a story about an illegal campaign contribution from a lobbyist for a multinational food corporation.

I don’t understand why the campaign was fined when they reported the error. It seems that creates an incentive to avoid reporting. If someone else reports it, fine. Also, what if they caught in the same week while going through new contributions? Are they liable to fines the moment the check comes in?

Maybe the campaign was fined because given his track record, Entenza isn’t believable.

This satirical email that’s making the rounds says it all–

“In these tough economic times, we shouldn’t forget the people who work day in and day out to promote the better interests of all Minnesotans.

I’m talking about the lobbyists.

You may have read about how Matt Entenza unintentionally accepted a campaign contribution from me during the legislative session. While this may have technically violated Minnesota’s campaign finance laws, it illustrates Matt’s great allegiance to the people who make government happen for those who can afford to pay them.

I’m proud to call Matt Entenza my friend and know the he will work to return power to the people–the people in whose hands it belongs, those with money who can hire help to talk to legislators.

Matt is no newcomer to helping himself by skirting our state’s campaign finance law. He has faced campaign finance issues before, including a 2006 fine of more than $28,000 accepting donations above state limits while running for attorney general.

Already, I’ve read blog posts by Matt’s online surrogates, David Kaplan and Brian Falldin, as they praise Governor Pawlenty’s decision to defund–or unallot, as you will–the Political Campaign Refund program. This tool allowed ordinary citizens of modest means to have a financial sake in elections.

We shouldn’t have that. Government is too important to be placed in the hands of ordinary citizens. Matt will help return control to rich people and their paid voices in St. Paul.

If you wait eagerly for this new day for Minnesota, join me in supporting Matt Entenza, our next governor.”

Sincerely,

Lee Anderson
Registered Lobbyist for General Mills

Matt Entenza has a history of campaign finance abuse. This is one in a laundry list of illegals activities that are inexcusable for someone who is a lawyer.