Prospective Successor To Regula Could Face Fines

The Ohio Democratic party filed a complaint against one of the leading Republicans looking to succeed Rep. Ralph Regula (R-Ohio) if he retires.

Republican state senator Kirk Schuring raised over $130,000 for his Congressional exploratory committee, which he created in preparation for Regula’s retirement. But he hasn’t officially announced his campaign or filed a statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission.

Candidates can only raise a maximum of $5,000 in the exploratory phase of their campaigns.

The state party is asking Schuring to “repay his illegal contributions” and calling for the FEC to fine him for his fundraising.

“We don’t think it’s proper for a potential congressman to believe the rules don’t apply to him,” said Ohio Democratic party spokesman Ryan Bortranger.

Democrats have been targeting the seat, whether the 82-year-old Regula retires or not. State senator John Boccieri is one of the party’s leading recruits: He received donations from House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Democratic Caucus Chair Rahm Emanuel in the last quarter.