Democratic Party Chair Lisa Pryor's Fundraising Appeal Raises Questions About In-kind Donations

Oklahoma Democratic Party Chair Lisa Pryor has asked party supporters to donate $10,000 immediately to reduce a party debt of almost $100,000 via an "agreement with a vendor to accept half of its original bill." The disclosure raises questions about in-kind contributions that apparently can only be answered by the Oklahoma Ethics Commission or the Federal Election Commission.

Two state officials asked about the circumstances said they would have to know more about the settlement agreement and what entity is involved. One noted the donation limitation and prohibition against corporate donations at the state level. The debt, however, is tied to a federal campaign and thus, FEC regulations apparently would determine how the debt settlement is handled.

Pryor's message to party faithful: "In the next two days we have an historic chance to reduce the debt of the Oklahoma Democratic Party by almost $100,000. We have reached an agreement with a vendor to accept half of its original bill. So every dollar you donate to the ODP counts double in the next two days. Since becoming Chairman in 2005, I have worked diligently to pay off the debt inherited from the previous administration and the 2004 election cycle. With your help, we have chopped and chopped over the last two years and now can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. If we can raise $10,000 in the next two days, we will put to bed all debt save for the last $50,000. That is a remarkable feat and it is because of dedicated Democrats like you that we were able to be fiscally responsible and pay down that half a million dollar debt. Help the ODP by donating today. I've worked hard and the work is not yet finished. I ask you to give what you can. Every penny you contribute will help Oklahoma Democrats. This is an exciting time to be a member of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. As Democrats, we had great nationwide success in 2006, and it is only the beginning of what we can accomplish here in Oklahoma. From our goals regaining control of both the State House and State Senate to reclaiming a seat in the U.S. Senate, we have much to do in the next few months. We need your participation and energy at the local levels to achieve our goals. Together, we must continue our push forward. Thank-you for your support, Lisa Pryor, Chairman"

The party ended the 2004 election cycle with a debt of about $500,000, most of it tied to Brad Carson's unsuccessful campaign for the U. S. Senate. The party's finance reports showed debts owed to several corporations; one of the largest bills was for cellular telephone usage.

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