Individuals may spend money in support of political candidates subject to certain restrictions and reporting requirements.
If the individual cooperates or consults with the candidate, the candidate's committee, or their agents about making the expenditure, it is considered a contribution to the campaign. That is prohibited in the case of Maine Clean Election Act (MCEA) candidates, because they may not accept contributions. An expenditure that is coordinated with a traditionally financed candidate (not participating in the MCEA) is subject to the contribution limits.
Coordinated expenditures must be reported to the Ethics Commission by the candidate as a contribution.
If the expenditure is made independently of the candidate, it may meet the definition of an independent expenditure. Please see Independent Expenditures for more information.