San Jose Mayor Accused Of Illegally Funneling Campaign Cash
SAN JOSE (KCBS) – San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed is being accused of illegally funneling $100,000 in campaign cash to support the reelection of city council member Rose Herrera.
Leaders of the police and fire unions have filed a complaint with the California Fair Political Practices Commission, which enforces state campaign finance laws.
"What this complaint details is an illegal transfer from Mayor Reed's controlled committee to help out an independent expenditure committee to assist Rose Herrera's campaign for her reelection for City Council," said San Jose Police Officers Association President Jim Unland.
KCBS' Mike Colgan Reports:
For his part, Mayor Reed contends he has done nothing wrong. He said labor groups are simply hoping to tilt the balance of power on the City Council in their favor.
"Independent expenditures are allowed under the U.S. Constitution and people have a right to contribute to independent expenditure committees," Reed said. "And those committees can spend it in support of candidates. That's what's happened."
The complaints are asking the FPPC to issue an immediate order prohibiting any further transfers and a return of funds that were transferred.
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