Kucinich qualifies for FEC funds

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Federal Election Commission has declared Rep. Dennis Kucinich qualified to receive federal matching funds, making the Ohio congressman eligible for up to $18.6 million. Candidates must meet FEC requirements to qualify, including raising a threshold amount of $100,000 by collecting $5,000 in 20 different states in amounts no greater than $250 from any individual.
They also must agree to an overall spending limit, abide by spending limits in each state, use public funds only for legitimate campaign-related expenses, keep financial records, and permit an extensive campaign audit.
The FEC said in a statement Wednesday that Kucinich contributions from the following states were verified for threshold purposes: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.
Of the nine Democrats seeking the nomination, former Vermont Gov. Howard Dean and Sen. John Kerry have decided not to seek matching funds. President Bush also has declined to accept federal funding.
Beginning in January, the U.S. Treasury Department will pay FEC-certified amounts to qualified campaigns.