SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — Utah’s Republican Party is asking delegates to donate $25 at the door of the party’s special convention to replace Congressman Jason Chaffetz, but the idea isn’t sitting well with everyone.
Party chair Rob Anderson said Thursday he’s trying to pay off the party’s deep debts, but critics say it’s a bad idea for a June 17 event that’s expected to play an outsize role in deciding the powerful congressman’s successor.
Anderson says the donation wouldn’t be mandatory, but rather “highly encouraged.” Since the fee is voluntary, Utah Elections Director Mark Thomas says it doesn’t appear to be an illegal poll tax.
Republican activist Holly Richardson says the charge could affect an important election, since the candidate delegates choose from a crowded field of hopefuls will appear on the ballot in the heavily Republican district.