Wall Surveyed Between Minn. Candidates, Groups

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesota campaign regulators have issued an opinion that discourages candidates from helping independent political groups raise money that could eventually be poured back into their races.

In a determination that won unanimous approval Tuesday, the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board said such activity would likely violate laws meant to keep activities of candidates and independent expenditure committees separate.

Regulators were responding to a request from an unidentified candidate's attorney who has been approached about raising money for an unnamed independent group. Those groups have fewer restrictions than candidates when it comes to raising and spending money, including the ability to accept corporate donations.

Board opinions are technically nonbinding, but they often provide a road map for future campaign activity and guide investigations when complaints arise.

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