A retired Missouri investment executive who has given millions of dollars to campaigns has filed a lawsuit challenging a proposed ballot measure seeking to establish campaign contribution limits.
According to a Kansas City Star report on Tuesday, Rex Sinquefield argues in his lawsuit that contribution limits would infringe on constitutional rights to free speech and free association. The suit contends the proposed limits are so low they inhibit effective advocacy, particularly as political campaigns become more costly.
The ballot measure is sponsored by the Missouri Roundtable for Life. It could go on the 2014 ballot if enough signatures are gathered from registered voters. The measure would cap donations at $2,600 for candidates for statewide office or the Legislature. Missouri repealed its limits on campaign contributions in 2008.