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Document doj-ogr-00031231

AI Analysis

Summary: The Albuquerque Tribune reports on the top donations to Bill Richardson's gubernatorial campaign, highlighting labor unions and gambling interests as major contributors. Labor unions, led by AFSCME, donated $633,488, while gambling interests contributed $648,392. The article suggests that gambling money has become a top influence in state politics over the past five years.
Significance: This document reveals the significant influence of labor unions and gambling interests on New Mexico politics, particularly in the 2006 gubernatorial election.
Key Topics: Bill Richardson's campaign contributions Labor unions' influence on New Mexico politics Gambling interests' impact on state politics
Key People:
  • Bill Richardson - Governor-elect of New Mexico
  • Gary Johnson - Outgoing Governor of New Mexico
Document Type
News Article
Date
March 7, 2006
Pages
1
Folder
IMAGES012

Full Text

Albuquerque Tribune Online Page 1 of 28 Albuquerque New Mexico, U.S.A. March 7, 2006 RICHARDSON'S CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS The top donations to gov. elect Bill Richardson's campaign came from: 1. Labor unions: $633,488 The top union donor was AFSCME, the public-employee's labor group, which gave $300,000 in cash contributions. AFSCME also produced its own radio and television ads during the Republican primary that were critical of GOP candidates. AFSCME is angling to persuade the Legislature and the governor to reinstate collective bargaining for state employees. Outgoing Gov. Gary Johnson allowed the previous agreement to expire, and Richardson has promised to work on a new agreement. The Communication Workers of America, which represents several thousand employees in New Mexico, contributed $100,000 through its political action committee in New Mexico. The American Federation of Teachers, one of two national teachers unions that represents New Mexico educators, gave $50,000. 2. Gambling interests: $648,392 This is a significant development in New Mexico campaign finances. In a matter of five years, gambling money has become one of the top influences in state politics. The top gambling contributor was the Downs at Albuquerque, which donated $100,000. The Downs has a relationship with the state because the racing license is regulated by the state Racing Commission. The Tribune Web site is updated by noon and as events warrant daily click to enlarge NMJobs.Info Buy Concert tickets here Concert Tickets Paid Advertisement Fast Cash Advance here Public Records Request No.: 173952006 DOJ-OGR-00031231