N.J. broadens Web database on campaign aid
New Jerseyans now have enhanced Internet access to a listing of people and companies who have helped fund their local leaders' political careers.
The state Election Law Enforcement Commission introduced this week a searchable database of campaign donations to municipal candidates. The information previously was available only on paper or in document files, which are difficult to analyze.
The database, at www.elec.state.nj.us, contains 2009 fund-raising activity for municipal primaries. The commission hopes to make general-election data available early next year.
The eventual plan is to list contributions to municipal political parties and candidates in school board, fire commission, and May and June runoff elections.
"While we have long provided public access to state and some county donations, this helps provide a missing link that will allow even broader awareness of how candidates raise their money," said Jeff Brindle, the commission's executive director. - Cynthia Burton
