Strickland received $10k; Dann said he almost framed Spitzer's check
COLUMBUS - Now that Eliot Spitzer has been identified as the subject of a federal investigation into a prostitution ring and resigned the New York Governorship in disgrace, the Ohio Republican Party is calling on Ted Strickland and Marc Dann to return Spitzer's sleazy campaign contributions.
"Eliot Spitzer has disgraced himself and his party. Ted Strickland and Marc Dann should reject his support and return the contributions they received from him immediately," said Ohio Republican Party Deputy Chairman Kevin DeWine.
Dann boasted in a May 2007 article in the New York Times that he was so honored by Spitzer's contribution to his campaign that "[he] almost framed it, and didn't cash it." (Karen Donovan, "In Search for a New Sheriff, One Stands Out," New York Times, 5/18/07)
According to the Columbus Dispatch, however, Dann's campaign finance records filed with "the Ohio Secretary of State's office show no contribution from Spitzer to Dann." (James Nash, "Eliot Spitzer's Mystery Donation," Columbus Dispatch, 3/17/08)
Dann's spokesman responded today that the Attorney General doesn't know what happened to the check, saying he doesn't even remember receiving it.
"If we assume that what he's saying now is the truth and he didn't actually receive a check, then why was he gloating to the New York Times about framing a check from Spitzer to hang on his wall?" said DeWine. "Even worse, if he did receive a check, why didn't he disclose the contribution according to campaign finance law? You would expect someone running for Attorney General to view honesty and proper disclosure as high priorities."
Furthermore, the Dispatch notes that "Dann may not have been allowed to just hang on to the check without depositing it, however. Under Ohio law, all contributions must be either deposited or returned within 30 days." (James Nash, "Eliot Spitzer's Mystery Donation," Columbus Dispatch, 3/17/08)
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