Corzine's Spending Practices

Tom Moran authored an article in NJ.com titled Gov. Corzine's use of vast wealth is 'corrosive' to N.J. public. Moran alludes to Corzine's liberal spending of his personal fortune during past and present New Jersey political campaigns.

A particular example of this in the present gubanatorial race is disturbing. It concerns about $90,000 given to Rev. Reginald Jackson who is head of the Black Minister’s Council. As the linked article notes, "The money was earmarked for church programs and for Jackson’s campaign to become a bishop in his church organization."

An endorsement of Corzine by Jackson followed the gift. That Jackson's endorsement motives are called into question is obvious. But when was the last time Corzine gave money to a church or a clergyman? Has he ever given to such a cause on a magnitude approaching $90,000? If not then his gift looks like a blatent attempt to secure an endorsement from a prominent individual. Buying reelection as governor.

Some may point out that neither Corzine nor Jackson violated any laws. In addition Jackson is free to maintain that he would have endorsed Corzine anyway. But there is an appearance of a conflict of interest. There is also a distinction to be made in how campaign donations are used. If donations pay for ads and travel expenses as opposed to being earmarked for an influential or prominent individual, one could argue that the funds are directed for legitimate campaign useage. Persuasion and the costs of campaigning evoke no moral qualms. Bribary, even if not legally defined as such or thought of by the participants in this light, is altogether different from a moral perspective.