New Mexico congressman sues to access campaign cash
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Republican Congressman Steve Pearce sued New Mexico's lead elections regulator on Thursday to seek access to a $1 million campaign war chest as he runs for governor in 2018.
The decision acknowledges that there are no specific state provisions regarding "transfers" from a federal to state campaigns — instead adhering to individual contribution limits.
Deputy Secretary of State John Blair said that his agency's interpretation of campaign finance restrictions was provided by phone more than six months ago to Democratic Rep. Michelle Lujan Grisham, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for governor in a crowded field of primary candidates.