Tucson attorney John Munger has given up his pursuit of the governor’s office.
The statement from Munger:
“The Supreme Court’s decision to leave in place the “matching funds” provision of Arizona’s so-called Clean Elections law presents an insurmountable obstacle to my campaign for Governor. As I have previously stated publicly and in legal filings, these dollar-for-dollar taxpayer matching funds create an unequal playing field by discouraging financial contributions to traditionally-funded candidates.
“Given the virtual impossibility of raising the necessary funds to compete against taxpayer-funded campaigns under this scenario, I have no choice but to officially withdraw from the race for Governor. I am eternally grateful to the many people who did pledge their financial support, embraced my ideas, and worked tirelessly for my campaign. At the present time, I am not endorsing another candidate in this race.
“It is regrettable that in these difficult economic times when the State cannot pay for teachers and other critical needs, candidates are using taxpayer funds to finance re-election campaigns. I am hopeful that ultimately, the High Court will move to dismantle Arizona’s Clean Elections law, allowing for a system with a truly level playing field for all candidates.
This article appears in May 27 – Jun 2, 2010.
You know it says a hell of a lot about the Republican Party when the most qualified and competent Republican candidate for governor – by far – can’t get the support of even five percent of Republican voters. That doesn’t mean I agree with John on that many issues, but it just goes to show you what has happened to the Republican party of 2010 in Arizona and nationwide.
There was a time when the local GOP could not pay the rent for their office. So much for solidarity.For them it is concept not a practice.