Evan Low Faces Allegations of Campaign Finance Violations

California regulators have initiated a significant investigation into former Assemblymember Evan Low, alleging multiple violations of campaign finance laws. The accusations stem from his fundraising activities for a nonprofit foundation, which reportedly provided substantial non-monetary contributions to his re-election campaign. If proven, these actions could have serious implications for Low and raise broader concerns about the integrity of campaign finance practices in the state.<\/p>

• Evan Low is accused of violating California’s campaign finance laws.<\/li>
• Allegations include receiving over $113,000 in non-monetary contributions from a nonprofit he helped fundraise for.<\/li>
• The California Fair Political Practices Commission is investigating the matter, which could lead to significant penalties.<\/li><\/ul>

Evan Low, a Democrat from Campbell, served in the California Assembly and was known for his close ties to the tech industry. He was a co-chair of the state Legislature’s Tech Caucus and actively sought donations from major tech companies for the Foundation for California’s Technology and Innovation Economy, a nonprofit closely associated with him.<\/p>

The allegations suggest that between 2018 and 2020, Low failed to disclose significant amounts of money raised for various nonprofits, including $227,500 for three organizations, with $97,500 specifically for the tech caucus foundation. The commission’s report indicates that Low may have received non-monetary contributions exceeding $113,000 from this foundation, which could violate state contribution limits.<\/p>

The California Fair Political Practices Commission’s report outlines numerous potential violations, including:<\/p>

1. Failure to Disclose<\/strong>: Low allegedly did not report behested payments totaling $505,000 raised for the tech caucus foundation.<\/li>
2. Non-Monetary Contributions<\/strong>: The foundation is accused of providing significant non-monetary support to Low’s campaign, which could breach both state and federal laws.<\/li>
3. Ethics Concerns<\/strong>: The relationship between Low and the nonprofit raises ethical questions about the potential for quid pro quo arrangements.<\/li><\/ol>

If the commission finds sufficient evidence of wrongdoing, Low could face substantial fines, potentially up to $5,000 for each violation. The investigation highlights broader issues within California’s campaign finance system, particularly regarding the use of nonprofits to channel funds to political campaigns without proper disclosure.<\/p>

Low’s attorney has disputed the commission’s findings, asserting that the foundation did not engage in any illegal activities. However, ethics advocates express concern over the implications of these allegations, emphasizing the need for transparency in campaign financing.<\/p>

Sean McMorris from California Common Cause stated, "This is an example of how nonprofits can be exploited by both politicians and political donors to curry favor and buy influence with elected officials."<\/p>

The ongoing investigation into Evan Low serves as a critical reminder of the complexities and potential pitfalls of campaign finance laws. As the California Fair Political Practices Commission continues its inquiry, the outcome could have lasting effects on Low’s political career and the broader landscape of campaign finance in California.<\/p>

• Regulators allege Evan Low violated campaign finance laws | News | coastsidenews.com<\/a>, Coastside News.<\/li><\/ul>