Ohio GOP challenges top justice over campaign call

COLUMBUS (AP) — The Ohio Republican Party has filed a complaint against state Supreme Court Chief Justice Eric Brown, alleging the Democrat violated campaign fundraising laws.

Under Ohio law, judicial candidates cannot directly ask for or receive campaign contributions.

In an audio recording released by the GOP, Brown is heard calling a supporter to attend a $1,000-a-head event at a Columbus nightclub on May 14.

Brown’s campaign consultant Don Spicer says the chief justice didn’t violate the law because Brown didn’t mention money on the call and people were not required to make a donation to attend.

The GOP’s June 4 complaint was filed with the court’s office of Disciplinary Counsel. It could be months before a panel of appellate judges determines if the complaint has merit.