Miami Herald: U.S. Sen. Mel Martinez announced eight months ago that he would not seek re-election but has continued to spend campaign donations on consultants, staff, air fares, meals, cell phones and purchases at the Senate gift shop.

Federal Election Commission records show that Martinez has spent $147,642 since his Dec. 2 announcement. He also returned $419,051 to his contributors, with $456,200 remaining in the account as of June 30. Federal law gives officeholders wide latitude to spend campaign donations on anything related to their election or in connection with their official duties. (story here)

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