Bill to close campaign cash loophole heads to Christie

Democrats who control the Legislature have sent a bill to Gov. Chris Christie’s desk aimed at shoring up what they see as a gaping loophole in political contribution regulations — with the potential side benefit of hurting Christie politically.

At issue is whether the private-sector financial officials with state contracts to manage public pension funds should be permitted to give political donations — not just in New Jersey but nationally.

The Democratic authors of the bill say they believe there should be no question in the public’s mind about whether public funds were subject to influence-peddling. The bill’s sponsor acknowledges it would bar some donations to Republican political committees, like the Christie-led Republican Governor’s Association.

Christie’s office declined to comment.