Minn. GOP to face probe from campaign board

The Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure will investigate the state Republican Party for alleged campaign finance violations in 2010.

Common Cause Minnesota alleged last week that the state GOP circumvented disclosure laws by failing to reveal its role in management of a fund aimed at financing the 2010 recount in the governor's race. The complaint also alleges the party filed false financial statements.

The Campaign Finance Board does not reveal its investigation, but Common Cause director Mike Dean released a letter Monday from the agency's director confirming an investigation.

State GOP officials have acknowledged the party is about $2 million in debt. Newly-elected party chairman Pat Shortridge did not immediately return a call seeking comment on the investigation.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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