Dems Bar Blakeman From NY Public Campaign Financing

Democrats on New York's Public Campaign Finance Board decertified Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman and his running mate from the state's public financing program, potentially denying up to $7 million in matching funds as he challenges Gov. Kathy Hochul. The move rested on a December rule requiring joint enrollment for running mates; with lieutenant governor candidate Todd Hood not filing, the ticket was deemed ineligible. Republicans called the decision political maneuvering and a bureaucratic snafu. Hochul did not participate in the program; several other candidates were removed, leaving only one enrolled candidate who isn’t a serious contender, setting the stage for a likely lawsuit by Blakeman.