DC Office of Campaign Finance
Press release on investigation of the Committee to Re-Elect Tony Williams and failure to report Washington Teachers Union and other contributions
January 23, 2003

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 22, 2003

On Monday, January 13, 2003 the Office of Campaign Finance (OCF) commenced an investigation into allegations, presented in the local media, that the 1998 Williams For Mayor and the 2042 Committee to Re-Elect Tony Williams campaigns failed to report contributions from the Washington Teachers Union and possibly other sources.

Pursuant to a request by the Board of Elections and Ethics, OCF is conducting an investigation of the 1998 Williams For Mayor and the 2002 Committee to Re-Elect Tony Williams committees and any affected political organizations on file, to determine whether the provisions of the reporting requirements of the D.C. Campaign Finance Reform and Conflict of Interest Act (the Act) might have been violated.

In the event that the OCF finds that either or both of Mayor Williams' campaigns did not comply with its reporting requirements, the OCF could order representatives of the committees to show cause why they should not be found in violation of the Act. The OCF acknowledges the Mayor's Statement issued today regarding this matter. Nonetheless, at this point, OCF has .made no determination as to the nature and extent of any contributions made in cash or in-kind.

However, Board of Elections and Ethics Chairman Benjamin F. Wilson has emphasized the fact that the OCF has not made any preliminary determinations regarding the allegations. He has stated that, "In view of the fact that this matter is currently under investigation and in order to insure the integrity of the process, the Board and OCF will reserve its judgment and refrain from drawing any conclusions until the investigation has been completed."

For further information contact Michael Simpson, Public Affairs Specialist, on (202) 671-0547.