Stan Stevens for OKGOP Chairman

As many of you have heard, we are facing significant financial obstacles stemming from FEC fines OKGOP received related to the period 2019-2020. An audit was conducted by the Federal Election Commission relating to the timeline in question. Unfortunately, due to the lack of supporting documentation and financial records from the time in question, the FEC concluded that we owe $274,000.00.  Additionally, they discovered that improper donations were accepted from non-profits and corporations in the amount of $16,981. This amount they call a discouragement. 

An attorney specializing Federal Election Commission law was hired last September and has been working on behalf of the party to negotiate a reduction in the fines. He successfully negotiated just over $100,000 off the original $274,000. He was also able to secure us an additional 12 months, for a total of 24 months in which we will have to repay the negotiated amount.  Our required monthly payments on the negotiated penalties will be 24 months @ $7,250.00. However, the discouragement of $16,981 must be paid in full within the first 90 days of the settlement agreement. 

Needless to say, it is a huge financial burden. A financial burden that cannot be discharged in bankruptcy but can certainly bankrupt our party.  If we fail to meet our commitment on the negotiated payment settlement, the entire amount will become due in full, fees and interest accruing. The FEC will then turn the matter over to the Department of Treasury for collection.  The Department of Treasury adds an additional 32% for the pleasure of doing business with them.  

This cannot be the legacy of our Republican party in Oklahoma.  This is one of the primary reasons why I committed to run for chairman, so I can work to ensure that we meet this obstacle head-on and ensure a bright, prosperous future for our Oklahoma Republican Party!