Results tagged “The Colbert Report” from OpenSecrets Blog
FEC Approves Colbert Super PAC, Debates Viacom Disclosure Requirements
By Kathleen Ronayne on June 30, 2011 12:54 PM
A master of satire, Stephen Colbert wields political influence even greater than that of some politicians.
On Thursday, that influence further expanded, when the Federal Election Commission confirmed he could operate a super PAC.
Colbert, who personally appeared before the FEC for a public hearing, had requested an advisory opinion on whether:
•He could form a super PAC in the first place
•Airtime and production costs incurred by Viacom would be subject to disclosure if the PAC was discussed or promoted on Colbert's show or other networks
•The super PAC could accept in-kind contributions from the public if it did so from Viacom
Each of the six commissioners, who frequently split on issues, agreed that Colbert had the right to form the super PAC.
But the ultimate vote was 5-1, which Republican Commissioner Don McGahn voting against due to disagreements on certain disclosure requirements.
The commission approved Colbert's request to form the super PAC -- a new form of political action committee that may raise and spend unlimited sums of money in order to independently support or oppose political candidates.
But several commissioners made sure to highlight the far-reaching effects the decision could have on media companies' involvement in political activity. Although Colbert made his requests in a serious fashion, one of his intentions is to highlight inefficiencies at the FEC and within campaign finance regulations.
"While Mr. Colbert's request may bring some levity to campaign finance issues, the questions and concerns before us today deserve serious attention," said FEC Chairwoman Cynthia Bauerly as she opened the public hearing.
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