Parker calls on House Ethics Committee to investigate Walorski

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 9, 2009

For more information: Indiana Democratic Party, 1-317-231-7100

Parker calls on House Ethics Committee to investigate Walorski
State Representative may have solicited illegal campaign contributions

INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana Democratic Party State Chair Dan Parker sent a letter today to the Indiana House Ethics Committee asking for an investigation into whether State Rep. Jackie Walorski, R-Elkhart, solicited campaign contributions last month in violation of both state statute and House Ethics Rules.

In a vitriolic Dec. 27 missive aimed at Planned Parenthood, Walorski wrote on her blog (http://jackiewalorski.blogspot.com) that "I need your prayer and financial support today to continue to mount an offensive for the protection of Hoosier children."

She continued: "You can contribute on-line, right now (see Contribute now button) or you can send a check to: Walorski Victory Committee, 59555 County Rd. 3, Elkhart, IN 46517. Folks, it's just us against a giant. I'm willing to stand and to continue to do what's right for our State but if there was ever a time where I need your financial support, it's now."

According to IC 3-9-2-12, members of the General Assembly are prohibited from soliciting campaign contributions during the legislative session in odd-numbered years. Furthermore, House Ethics Rules state that a member may not raise money from Organization Day until adjournment in long sessions.

"The rules of the House are more stringent than state statute and were created to prevent this kind of solicitation around legislative activity," Parker said. "The rules are the rules, and even Jackie Walorski must follow them. This is the most blatant attempt to raise money during the prohibited period since the rules were adopted many years ago."

Parker said he wanted to refer the matter first to the House Ethics Committee but hopes that the St. Joseph County Prosecutor will look into the matter if Walorski is found to have violated state law.

A copy of the letter and a screen shot of the blog post are available upon request.