2012 election leaves W.Va. super PAC in its wake [View all]

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — West Virginia's first so-called super political action committee is considering its post-2012 election options after winning a temporary federal court ruling allowing its donors to contribute unlimited amounts.

The PAC, Stay the Course West Virginia, was one of several groups that funded independent ad campaigns last year. It also filed a challenge of state campaign laws meant to regulate independent expenditure PACs. The lawsuit prompted an August order from U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Johnston that temporarily blocked $1,000-per-election cap on contributions to such groups. The case remains is, with Stay the Course seeking a final ruling that permanently strikes down the contribution limit and prevents county prosecutors from enforcing it.

Spokesman Jason Parsons says the group hasn't decided whether it will take part in future elections. But it considers its 2012 effort a success, as it was formed to help re-elect Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin. After the Democrat won a special election the previous year for an unexpired term, voters gave Tomblin a full four-year term in November. His inauguration ceremony is Monday.

http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/2012-election-leaves-W-Va-super-PAC-in-its-wake-4168264.php#ixzz2H5oSag4O