Can some candidates be staying in the race to pay off debt with donations?

[NNN0LHI]

I am not sure how it works. Are candidate responsible for all debts incurred during their run? I would think so. And all of the candidates have spent some big money to try and win Iowa and NH. I could see someone staying in long enough to just get the bills paid off. Anyone else think this may be a reason that some are hanging on?

Don

[eyesroll]

1. Hm...that would be legal

Candidates aren't personally responsible for debts, but their committees are.

Debts can be retired through fundraising (even after the election, or after the candidate has dropped out as long as the fundraising doesn't exceed the debt), through the sale of campaign assets, forgiveness of salary by staff (they can declare their work to be volunteer, after the fact, but I think they can't be required to do so), and even forgiveness of the debt in some situations.

[iowapeacechief]

2. Kucinich has cash...

...and a nationwide organization. He is still raising money, but not to cover past debts.

[SheilaT]

3. I know that it's common

for losing candidates in all sorts of races, not just the presidential one, to take years to pay off debts incurred. Every so often in years past I've read newspaper articles or seen pieces on TV about this. Haven't come across any such in recent years, so I can't offer any links.

[Abigail147]

4. Now how is Sharpton going to pay off that right-winger that has been

subsidizing him? Can it be continued barrage at Dean who really does have a shot?

[tishaLA]

5. That right winger is working for free

so Sharpton doesn't have to worry.

What a sad story that was.

[NNN0LHI]

6. I more had Lieberman on my mind

I could see him staying on a little longer to get some bills paid. It would make sense.

Don