Rohrabacher Told To Return Manafort Campaign Contributions

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — A Democratic candidate hoping to unseat Rep. Dana Rohrabacher in 2018 called on the Huntington Beach Republican to return a $1,000 campaign contribution from former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort, who pleaded not guilty Monday to money laundering charges.

"Congressman Rohrabacher met with and received a campaign contribution from his 'old friend' Paul Manafort, who has now been charged with conspiracy against the United States," said Hans Keirstead, a stem cell research scientist. "At the bare minimum, the congressman must return the campaign donation."

Messages left with Rohrabacher's congressional spokesman and to his campaign were not immediately returned.

Rohrabacher received the contribution on March 22, 2013, Federal Elections Commission records show.

"It's alleged that Manfort improperly received funds from foreign interests and committed various money laundering and other fraud crimes," Keirstead said. "His money is tainted.

Rohrabacher should give back the Russian-tainted money as soon as possible," Keirstead said. "Our congressman needs to convince the people of Orange County that he wants the full, unvarnished truth about foreign interference in our elections. Rep. Rohrabacher must support the bill protecting (special counsel) Robert Mueller's authority in this special investigation from executive action by President Trump."

City News Service

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