A failed New York state Senate candidate from Central New York allegedly used gift cards to buy fake campaign donations — including from homeless people — to cash in on public matching funds, according to Times Union.
Caleb Slater’s 2024 campaign is under investigation by the state attorney general for listing false donors and paying people cash or gift cards to sign forms. Witnesses said Slater’s team targeted low-income residents outside gas stations and pharmacies in Auburn, where some signed $250 donation forms in exchange for as little as $30.
Records show his campaign raised $51,000 and pulled in $240,000 in taxpayer funds. The audit continues, but Slater hasn’t responded publicly or announced future political plans.
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