Officials reviewing signatures calling for recall elections of Gov. Scott Walker, Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch and four Republican state senators said in a letter to legislators they would request more time to review the petitions.
In a letter sent to legislators Monday, Government Accountability Board Director Kevin Kennedy also requested $404,500 to cover expenses, as the board continues to verify the signatures.
The request comes as Walker said Monday he would not challenge any of the one million signatures filed against him.
Democrats criticized the time extension because it gives Walker more time to raise funds without the usual election campaign restrictions, which go into effect only after an election is declared.
“More extensions allow Gov. Walker to continue breaking the spirit of campaign finance law by raising unlimited contributions,” said Scot Ross, communication director for gubernatorial recall candidate Kathleen Falk, in an email. “More delays benefit his war chest, but not the interests of Wisconsin.”
A contributor during an election can donate a maximum of $10,000, but until a campaign is declared, a donor can give as much as they want. Democrats must comply with the campaign fundraising limits as well.
Walker said he would not submit any challenges, but requested the board consider challenges brought by groups not directly associated with the targeted politician or recall groups. The board, however, has said it will not accept such challenges.
Tom Evenson, press secretary for Friends of Scott Walker, applauded the GAB’s request for more time to review the petitions.
“Upholding the integrity and fairness of the process is priority number one, and we are glad the GAB is committed to doing so,” Evenson said.
