Elections Board Rule Could Limit Public Access to Campaign Finance Complaints

May 20, 2026 - 01:25

A proposed rule change in North Carolina could significantly limit public access to campaign finance complaints. The draft regulation, currently under review by the State Board of Elections, aims to formalize the process for handling alleged violations of campaign finance law. Under the new language, any complaint filed would be designated as "confidential" from the moment it is received.

The shift would mark a departure from current practice, where many complaints are treated as public records once they are filed. Supporters of the rule argue that confidentiality is necessary to protect individuals from frivolous or politically motivated accusations before a full investigation is conducted. They say it will prevent the weaponization of the complaint process during election cycles.

Critics, however, see the move as a blow to government transparency. Open government advocates warn that sealing these records could allow violations to go unnoticed by the public and the press. Without access to the initial filings, voters would have no way to know if a candidate is under scrutiny for improper donations or spending until the board decides to take action. The board has not yet set a date for a final vote on the proposal.