What happens to Dodd’s & Dorgan’s partying cash?
Before announcing their decision yesterday to retire from the Senate, both Sen. Chris Dodd (D-CT) and Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND), were actively fundraising.
Dodd has about $2.4 million cash on hand in his campaign and leadership PAC accounts, according to the Center for Responsive Politics (CRP). Dorgan has $4 million.
What will they do with this cash? Federal law says they must either return contributions, pay down campaign expenses, give the money to charity, or transfer to other candidates. They can also hold on to campaign funds for future use. Our own Luke Rosiak reported in 2008 for CRP on how many retiring lawmakers appear to use much of their accumulated cash to pay for meals and other entertainment.
The senators may also use their clout to help raise cash for Senate Democrats. Dorgan recently was one of several senators to lend his name as a draw for a December 14 fundraiser for Lee Fisher, who is running for Ohio’s Senate open seat.
See Dodd’s fundraisers here.
See Dorgan’s fundraisers here.
Tweet 0 CommentsPARTYFINDER™ Hints
Beneficiary: congressional candidate, lawmaker, or entity which collects funds raised at party
Host: person who is hosting party-often, but not always, a registered federal lobbyist
Venue Name: where the party is
Entertainment Type: type of gathering, such as "breakfast," "ski trip," "bowling"
Other Lawmakers Mentioned: lawmakers mentioned on invitation who are used as a draw for the event
Sunlight's Party Time is a project to track parties for members of Congress or congressional candidates that happen all year round in Washington, D.C. and beyond. (read more)
We also post information we receive about parties where members of Congress are expected to participate—such as convention or inaugural parties.
Since we don't hear about all the parties, you can also tell us if you know where the party is and we don't.
