No Purchase Necessary

By Kleinheider Posted on August 7, 2008 at 7:21 am

Tom Humphrey reports that a promotional press release from the Bob Tuke campaign seemed to run afoul of state lottery laws:

Tuke came up with a fundraising effort that arguably raised questions about whether his campaign could run afoul of state laws that prohibit most lottery contests.

“Donate $50 … and you may be selected to attend a private political strategy dinner with us as well as have VIP backstage access,” declared the solicitation.

The dinner on election night is to include both Tuke and Joe Trippi, his chief political strategist.

That might sound like offering a chance for a prize in exchange for money, forbidden by state laws except for charitable events explicitly authorized by the Legislature.

But it’s not, says Ben Chao, Tuke’s campaign manager, who pointed out a disclaimer below the main text of the solicitation. It says that no donation, or purchase, is necessary to win - just as with promotional contests.

“We were very careful not to violate any lottery laws,” said Chao.

permalink

Tags: Bob Tuke, Joe Trippi, Memphis  

Comments