Campaign money raised during probe

Republican COLUMBUS —

Cliff Rosenberger continued to raise and spend campaign money, even after publicly disclosing that he was under federal investigation, a new campaign finance report shows.

Rosenberger, who resigned April 10 — five days after telling this newspaper that he had hired a criminal defense attorney to handle an FBI investigation, raised $32,750 from Jan. 30 to April 9. The last contribution — $1,000 — came from the Ohio Farm Bureau the day before Rosenberger stepped down as Ohio House Speaker.

Since Jan. 30, Rosenberger spent $82,748 from his campaign account, including $7,728 after he resigned. The post-resignation expenses include $75 for office supplies, $1,601 for video production, and $104 at the gift shop in the Ohio Statehouse for “flag/gift for staff departure.” He also used $4,825 from the account to reimburse the state for mileage.

On May 23, FBI agents raided Rosenberger’s home in Clarksville and a nearby storage unit. Multiple sources say the FBI is examining Rosenberger’s expenses, including three international trips he took with representatives of the payday lending industry.

During Rosenberger’s tenure as speaker, a payday lending reform bill stalled in the House for months. After his departure, the bill gained support and Gov. John Kasich signed it into law this week.

Rosenberger, who has said that his actions as speaker were ethical and lawful, has not been charged with any crimes.

Monthly campaign finance reports for candidates on the statewide ballot this fall are due Friday. Those will give a glimpse at the fundraising strength of Republican Mike DeWine and Democrat Rich Cordray as the head into the height of the gubernatorial campaign.