Campaign Donations Should Come From Residents—NOT Special Interests

As the treasurer for Bill Brand’s re-election campaign for City Council in Redondo Beach in District 2, I’m responsible for filing all the required financial statements accurately and on time. Bill has raised $8,754 to date, and with the generosity of the locals he represents, expects to reach his goal of $12,000 by election day, March 5.

Other than from some extended family members, Bill’s donations come from the residents of District 2. He turns away donations from special interests like developers, trash companies, consultants, businesses and Harbor leaseholders.  As his treasurer, I cringe but admire at some of the donations he has declined to prevent even a hint of conflict with the residents that elected him.

Not so with his opponent Michael Jackson. He has raised a whopping $17,391 so far, but only $1,550 from District 2 residents. Over 90 percent of Michael Jackson's donations are from outside District 2, like businesses and individuals in Sacramento. Clearly, outside, non-resident interests are funding his campaign.

Only five individuals that actually live in District 2 in Redondo Beach have donated to Michael Jackson’s campaign.

All the candidate records and filings are available for viewing at the City Clerk's office. 

Linda Moffat