An anti-Obama ad created by American Crossroads, a "super PAC" formed in part by GOP strategist Karl Rove. (American Crossroads / January 31, 2012) |
American Crossroads, a "super PAC" founded in part by GOP strategist Karl Rove, received $18.4 million over the past year from some well known, well-heeled individuals.
For example, $7 million came from Dallas billionaire Harold Simmons ($5 million from Simmons personally and $2 million from his privately held company); $500,000 was reported from Crow Holdings, run by Dallas real estate baron Harlan Crow; Another $500,000 came from Kenny Troutt, a billionaire communications executive also based in Dallas.
A coal industry management firm, Alliance Management Holdings, gave $425,000, according to the late-night filing. The end of the year tally included $100,000 from Sam Zell, whose properties include the Tribune Co., owner of the Los Angeles Times and the Chicago Tribune, among other papers.
The financial disclosure forms, filed Tuesday night, did not cover funds raised by the non-profit affiliate of American Crossroads, Crossroads GPS. The GPS organization does not have to disclose its donors because it is a 501(c)4 “social welfare” organization.
The two Crossroads organizations have so far attracted $51 million during the past year, and may raise as much as $300 million before the general election next November. Though formed only two years ago, the Crossroads organizations have already become dominant within the Republican party, swooping in to battleground races with remarkable success in 2010, often outspending candidates and parties.
Also notable on the donor list: $250,000 from Janet Duchossois, whose husband Craig Duchossois is the CEO of the Illinois-based Duchossois Group. The group’s portfolio, valued at $2 billion, includes Churchill Downs, the historic racetrack that hosts the Kentucky Derby.
The group spent $3.5 million in 2011 and entered the election year with $15.6 million on hand.
melanie.mason@latimes.com
tom.hamburger@latimes.com
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