Lt. Gov. Bauer Creates Unusual Christmas Fundraiser

Robert Kittle
Published: December 17, 2008

If you’re still looking for a unique Christmas gift, there’s an option you probably wouldn’t have considered—Lt. Gov. André Bauer. As a way to raise money for a potential run for governor, he’s offering gifts in return for political contributions. You can choose from hunting or fishing trips, stays in houses he owns in Charleston’s Historic District or the beach, artwork and even a chance to drive a race car. He’s got it all on a website you can see here.

“If you look at our president-elect, he was very creative in how he raised money and so we really took a page out of his book and said, ‘Let’s get more creative on encouraging people to donate in the political process,‘“ he says.

The Web site states that all the purchases are considered “in-kind” political contributions, are not tax deductible and will be reported on state ethics forms. The $3,500 campaign contribution limit also applies, and lobbyists are not allowed to buy gifts since they’re not allowed to make donations. The State Ethics Commission says the unusual fundraiser does not violate any laws.

Bauer has been mentioned as a possible candidate for governor or Congress, but tells News Channel 7 he’s considering only the governor’s race. “I’m giving it a lot of consideration and leaning towards running for governor,“ he says, adding he’ll make a decision by spring.

If he does decide to run, he knows he’s far behind in fundraising, which he says is why he came up with the website. Other Republicans who are thinking about running for governor, or who have been mentioned by the media as possible candidates, are Attorney General Henry McMaster, Congressman Gresham Barrett, Carroll Campbell III and state House Majority Leader Jim Merrill.