FEC recommends fine for Fla. auto dealership

MIAMI – The Federal Election Commission is recommending that an auto dealership formerly co-owned by Florida congressman Vern Buchanan be fined for "a scheme" to reimburse employees for political contributions to his campaign.

The FEC filed a motion Friday in U.S. District Court seeking a $67,900 fine. The commission says Hyundai of North Jacksonville improperly reimbursed workers who contributed to the Sarasota Republican's campaign from 2005 to 2007. Buchanan was partial owner of the dealership from 2004 to 2008.

Company owner Sam Kazran told the Bradenton Herald he reimbursed his employees but maintained he was acting on directions from Buchanan, who is not listed as a defendant.

A campaign spokesman says Kazran is "lashing out" because of a recent $624,000 judgment against him over a loan he failed to repay Buchanan.

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Information from: The Bradenton Herald , http://www.bradenton.com