A political watchdog group called Tuesday for a state investigation
into Assembly Speaker Fabian Núñez’s channeling of corporate charitable
funds through a nonprofit group to bankroll civic events that featured
him.

The Foundation for Taxpayer and Consumer Rights said the
fundraising by the Los Angeles Democrat — totaling more than $250,000
— was a facade to promote himself in 2005 and 2006 while evading the
state’s campaign contribution limits.

Núñez denied any wrongdoing in connection with the civic
events, which ranged from a toy drive to a youth conference that
carried his name.

"People in my district expect me to do things to help them,
especially if it’s something that’s going to help poor children," he
said.

The Fair Political Practices Commission said it received the
complaint Tuesday but did not formally accept the document because it
was missing a required element. It is expected to be refiled soon.