Friday, April 21, 2000

By T.C. BROWN

and SANDY THEIS
PLAIN DEALER BUREAU

COLUMBUS - The Ohio Republican Party will continue to raise funds for Team Ohio, but without its earlier promises of access to top GOP officeholders in exchange for a donation of $25,000 or more.

And if Democrats have their way, money paid by future Team Ohio members will be disclosed.

"We’re still in the process of raising money. By no means is it [dead]," said Tom Whatman, executive director of the Ohio Republican Party.

Team Ohio is designed to attract high-dollar donors to the party’s operating account. Under a law in effect for decades, parties can accept unlimited donations to such accounts and do not have to disclose the donors’ names.

At the urging of Gov. Bob Taft - who was stung by his participation in the fund raising - the practice of promising big donors receptions at the Governor’s Mansion and other perks involving state property has ended, Whatman said.

"I don’t believe we ever had a reception at the governor’s residence before. Last fall was our first - and our last," he said.

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©2000 THE PLAIN DEALER. Used with permission.