FEC: Coleman can use campaign cash in lawsuits

The Federal Election Commission said today that Norm Coleman can use campaign funds to pay legal fees arising from allegations that a supporter funneled money to Coleman through his wife's employer.

The FEC advisory opinion states Coleman can use campaign money to pay legal bills and other costs related to two lawsuits that make the alleged illegal money funneling claims.

Coleman is not named in either of the lawsuits, and has denied allegations that a supporter funneled at least $75,000 to his wife Laurie, through her employer.

Coleman sought clarification from the FEC on whether he could use campaign money to pay for legal expenses related to the litigation, claiming the lawsuits targeted him because he was running for re-election.

The FEC's opinion does not apply to money Coleman raised to pay for the recount and legal fight over his prolonged U.S. Senate election dispute with Democrat Al Franken.

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