House backs election funding

Some campaigns could get state aid

Candidates in a few down-ballot races could get some of their campaign money from the state under a bill the House approved Saturday.

Beginning with next year's elections, candidates for state auditor, superintendent of public instruction and insurance commissioner would be able to qualify for campaign money from a public fund.

The House approved the measure 59-57 and sent it to the Senate.

The measure reflects continuing interest in public campaign financing. In 2002, the legislature started a public financing program for candidates in statewide elections for state Appeals Court and Supreme Court.

Supporters of public financing say it makes candidates less reliant on contributions from people who have financial or professional interests in officeholders' decisions.

"It's going to increase confidence in the electoral process," said Rep. Rick Glazier, a Fayetteville Democrat, by helping remove some of the influence of special interest groups in campaigns.

To get it going, the fund would get $1 million in state money this year.

Rep. Paul "Skip" Stam of Apex, the House minority leader, argued that the measure wastes money.

Other Republicans suggested that political consultants would contribute to campaigns so the candidates would qualify for state money to hire them.

To get money, candidates would have to qualify by raising about $29,000 in small contributions from at least 750 donors.

Candidates would get at least $300,000 each from the public fund.

Candidates who accept public money would agree to campaign spending limits.