To: All public officials Re: State laws on campaigning It’s come to our attention that the state law outlawing the use of taxpayer-funded computers for campaigning might not be foremost on public officials’ minds. For example, Spokane Valley Mayor Mike DeVleming used his city-owned computer last winter to promote the candidacy of Dino Rossi, a Republican who is running for governor. DeVleming was a table captain for a breakfast fund-raiser and was the Spokane Valley contact. He sent 14 pro-Rossi e-mails, according to records obtained by The Spokesman-Review under the state’s public records law. In one e-mail to an assistant, he said: “I am trying to find 9 folks who are willing to pay $150 for breakfast at the Davenport. Any ideas????” A deputy city attorney who reviewed the e-mails before releasing them notified DeVleming that his actions were prohibited. DeVleming told a reporter: “It’s one of those deals where I clearly was learning the ropes.” But you don’t need to be a government veteran or legal expert to realize that residents who aren’t Republicans might find the use of their money for partisan promotions offensive and unethical. Plus, DeVleming holds a nonpartisan position and is supposed to be the mayor for all people, even those who didn’t vote for him. The new-to-governing argument is weakened by the fact that former Spokane County Assessor Charlene Cooney made headlines not that long ago for similar violations. The Democrat flouted state law in her 1994 and 1998 campaigns by using office personnel to edit speeches and label campaign literature. So, why is this a big deal? And why the snooping around for e-mails in the first place? First, allowing public officials to use publicly financed office equipment or staffers gives them an unfair advantage. Either we let their opponents do the same, or we outlaw the practice altogether. Besides, shouldn’t public officials be doing their real jobs instead? Second, the press makes inquiries on the public’s behalf. Many people simply don’t know how to file public records requests, and they don’t have the time to sift through all the materials. The state relies on whistleblowers or the media to report campaign law violations. The Public Disclosure Commission doesn’t have the manpower to unearth misdeeds. Judging from DeVleming’s response, he could’ve continued to violate the law had a reporter not been playing watchdog. If he’s smart, he’ll quietly pay whatever fine is handed down. Meanwhile, all other public officials should take note: Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.