We have an amazing political system for which we can thank our forefathers. When it is followed and adhered to, it provides for a truly representative government of the people, by the people and for the people. We elect people, who we believe will faithfully represent our beliefs, and adhere to them as they represent the public’s interests.
When we make campaign contributions, dedicate time to a campaign, and cast our votes for our candidates or causes, we have certain expectations: 1) the money, time, and vote will not be squandered, and 2) it will be used for its intended purpose.
There are instances however, in which candidates serve themselves and not the greater good of the campaign or cause. Face it, campaigns are expensive and we often entrust our money to candidates to help them win the election and go on to be a true public servant.
Is it too much to expect “our” money to be used for campaign expenses like signs, mailings, etc? It shouldn’t be, but once again, as we see in the instances outlined below, that is not always the case:
Senator Rebecca Rios, LD- 27. According to the Secretary of State finance reporting, Income for period 11/9/2016 to 6/30/2018 was $38,627.53. Of this, roughly 34% came from individual donations and 57% came from PACS (including The Political Committee of Planned Parenthood Advocates of Arizona). The balance was thru small donations and a cash surplus from a previous committee.
But if you look at the spending of the monies given for campaign efforts, we see a whole different pattern from the most of the other legislators and candidates. Rather than spending on printing, graphics, web services, etc. we see spending on food, gas and coffee. But don’t take our word for it, look at the spending reports yourself (scroll down to operating expense).
Representative Paul Boyer, LD-20. We have a new winner. In addition to being in the Arizona Republic’s top 10 absentee legislator’s list, Mr. Boyer’s campaign finances will astound you.
Related article: Arizona Legislatures, Most Absent Lawmakers
According to the Secretary of State finance reporting, Income for period 11/9/2016 to 6/30/2018 was $52,930.29. Of this, roughly 24% came from individual donations and a staggering 76% came from PAC’s (including unions). But what is amazing is the way he is spending the money given to him for campaign expenses – coffee, food, gas, casinos, and so on. But again, don’t take our word for it, look at the spending reports yourself (scroll down to operating expense).
Is this representative of the “Trust” we put in these people?
Vote accordingly in this Primary.