Washington’s campaign-finance watchdog has stopped enforcing special limits on large donations made shortly before an election, opening more room for political committees and candidates using their own money ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.
The Public Disclosure Commission adopted the change Oct. 22, citing concerns about whether the restriction would withstand a constitutional challenge. In its October meeting summary, the agency said the decision primarily affects contributions to political action committees and candidates’ contributions to their own campaigns.
The restriction covered donations from one source exceeding $75,000 for a statewide campaign or $7,500 for another campaign during the 21 days before a general election, subject to exceptions.
Ordinary donor limits remain
For readers following local races, the distinction matters: the PDC continues to enforce the separate contribution limits that apply to most candidates.
The PDC’s announcement describes the suspension as an enforcement policy, adopted because of concerns about the special restriction’s constitutionality.
The money still has to be reported
Expedited disclosure requirements for late-election donations also continue. The PDC’s last-minute contribution guidance explains those reporting rules.
Readers can search the PDC’s public campaign-finance database by candidate or committee to see where election money comes from and how campaigns spend it.
Source reporting: Jerry Cornfield, Washington State Standard. Justabouts also reviewed the PDC’s announcement, meeting summary and reporting guidance.
