Reports to shed light on brewing cash battle in state Legislature

Published 10:02 am Tuesday, February 2, 2016

ST. PAUL — Lawmakers and political groups are setting the stage for the battle for control of the Legislature. Their quest for cash is shaping up, too.

New reports expected to be released Tuesday provide the first glimpse at how much money candidates, political parties and outside groups have raised and spent. The reports will cover all of 2015.

With no statewide candidates on the ballot in 2016, legislative races will get more attention — and funding. Republicans are seeking to maintain control of the House, while Democrats are defending the state Senate.

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But the reports from the Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board won’t provide a complete picture. Some groups operate outside the traditional regulatory system and won’t have to disclose donor and spending information.