Ind. Senate candidate paid relative $170K for campaign work

Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-Ind.), who is facing a tough battle for a Senate seat in Indiana’s primary Tuesday, paid a relative $170,000 for past campaign work, the latest report to highlight the candidate’s questionable spending.

{mosads}The AP reports that Stutzman paid his brother-in-law nearly $170,000 to manage the finances of his congressional campaign, though he had no experience working in politics.

“I trust him more. I know him,” Stutzman said of Gabe Rivera, the husband of his wife’s sister. “I’m trying to protect every dollar that comes in from donors. I had no concerns whatsoever about him being my brother-in-law.”

Last week, the AP reported Stutzman spent more than $3,000 in donor money on airfare and travel expenses for a California trip which his wife on Facebook called a family vacation. 

The AP also reported more than $300,000 of campaign money has been spent on flights, vehicle charges, meals and hotel stays.

The Hill also reported earlier this week Stutzman failed to report $1,100 in expenses to federal campaign officials, including a private plane trip last month from a friend with a real estate development business.

Stutzman is running against Rep. Todd Young (R-Ind.) in Indiana’s primary Tuesday for the Senate seat held by Dan Coats (R), who announced last year he will retire.