NM ethics watchdog looks into dark money group that propped up state House Democratic candidates

The New Mexico State Ethics Commission voted Monday to seek more information, through a lawsuit if necessary, from New Chapter New Mexico, a political action committee that spent more than $400,000 during the June 2 Democratic primary election to help elect an array of candidates and did not disclose its donors.

The commission, which is empowered under state law to enforce the state Campaign Reporting Act, unanimously voted during its meeting to make an unspecified demand of — “and, if necessary, file a civil action against” — the New Chapter group and its 501(c)4 nonprofit organization that carries a similar name.

In response to a question about the commission’s investigation, SEC Deputy Director Amelia Bierle pointed Source NM to a resolution the commission passed that notes that the SEC is looking into two provisions of the Campaign Reporting Act related to New Chapter’s conduct.

One provision that makes it unlawful for a political donor to contribute “in the name of another person” and for a recipient to knowingly accept a deceptive campaign contribution.



https://sourcenm.com/briefs/nm-ethics-watchdog-looks-into-dark-money-group-that-propped-up-state-house-democratic-candidates/