Commentary by Larry Lannan
An August, 2013 fundraising letter for a local Political Action Committee (PAC) caused quite a stir leading up to the Fishers city primary election when it was made public by several people posting a copy on the Internet. The Royal Tiger PAC asked potential donors for a $3,500 contribution to become a “member” and meet decision makers in Fishers.
If you are unfamiliar with PACs, they are conduits between donors and political candidates. PACs generally support an industry, union or political philosophy.
Based on legally required financial reports for the period of January 1, 2013 through April 11, 2014, the Royal Tiger PAC raised over $84,000. Only 3 individuals gave the PAC $3,500 and 11 business organizations, mostly partnerships, contributed $3,500 each. An Indianapolis PAC sent this group $3,500.
Based on the official reports, the political candidates benefiting from the Royal Tiger PAC include Fishers City Council Candidates David George, Eric Moeller, John Weingardt and Pete Peterson. George and Moeller had primary opponents. Weingardt and Peterson were unopposed in last week’s election.
County Council Candidate Andrew Dollard also received support from this PAC.
Unless something happened after April 11 (the legal reporting period deadline), the Royal Tiger PAC did not get involved in the Fishers mayoral race.
I had one local politician tell me he does listen to his political donors but he’s open to talking with anyone about anything. He believes there is nothing wrong with this arrangement as long as he’s willing to talk with anyone.
The question some would ask is this: Do politicians listen to their donors more carefully than other constituents?
I have no idea what is in the heart and mind of any candidate or elected official. Some have described this system of financing our political campaigns as unseemly. However, it is the system blessed by our laws and the interpretation of our constitution by the United States Supreme Court.
Whether our election laws are right or wrong is a legitimate issue for debate.
Those that oppose groups like the Fishers Tiger PAC should run candidates for office and make their case to the voters. That’s the American way.
I am no lawyer, but it appears the Royal Tiger PAC followed the law in raising and distributing money during this election cycle. Whether the current election finance laws are good or bad for the political system is an argument that will continue.
