AO 2017-09: Libertarian Association of Massachusetts qualifies as a state party committee
The Libertarian Association of Massachusetts (the Committee) qualifies as a state party committee under the Federal Election Campaign Act (the Act).
Background
Under the Act and Commission regulations, a state party committee is an organization that by virtue of the bylaws of a political party is part of the official party structure and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of a political party at the state level, as determined by the Commission. In order for a committee to qualify as a state party committee, it must place at least one candidate for federal office on the ballot as a party candidate.
Analysis
The Commission determined that the Libertarian Association of Massachusetts meets the three criteria essential to qualify as a state party committee: (1) the national Libertarian National Party (LNP) qualifies as a political party; (2) the Committee is part of the official LNP structure; and (3) the Committee is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the LNP at the state level.
AO 2017-09: Date issued: September 14, 2017; 6 pages
Citations: Advisory opinions
- AO 2016-22
Status as state party committee of national party - AO 2016-14
Status of 11 Libertarian State Committees as state party committee of national party - AO 1975-129
Acceptance of maximum individual contributions by national committee of a non-major political party