Surge In Contribution To Gov. Brown's Pet Charities
SAN JOSE (AP) — Two favorite charities of Gov. Jerry Brown are getting a flood of donations from wealthy California business interests.
The San Jose Mercury News reports that two Oakland charter schools that Brown supports have received $2.7 million in contributions in just the first three months of this year.
Top donors include the San Pablo Lytton Casino, a San Francisco Bay Area gaming center that would need Brown's approval to expand. It has given $100,000. Others include medical, technology and insurance interests. The Mercury News reports that donations to Brown's favorite charities are on pace to more than double the amount given in previous years.
Governor's spokesman Evan Westrup says the donations support important causes. Campaign watchdog groups say donors hope to buy access and favors from the governor.
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