The Richmond Tea Party has applied with the IRS to be a 501(c) (4) nonprofit group. This is something we began at the end of 2009 and are still currently working through. According to the IRS tax code, 501(c)(4) organizations may endorse and support candidates for office if we meet certain conditions. However, since we are still in the process of going through the complicated application process, we have decided to not pursue that option at this time.
Though we are taking no official position on the 2010 elections, we wholeheartedly support and applaud the many individuals within the “Tea Party” movement who have become active in the political process, serving their personal convictions by endorsing and campaigning for the candidates of their choice. And as this election season progresses, we will continue to report on the records and actions of the various candidates as they relate to our core principles. We will also continue to keep you informed of their upcoming events so you can attend, learn more about them, and make your own assessments. While many candidates are claiming to be “Tea Party candidates,” and may or may not be according to many of your assessments, please know that RTP has not endorsed any candidate for the 2010 elections as a tea party candidate.
We hope you all will make significant contributions to these 2010 elections. Make sure your voice is heard and let’s all do our part to make a difference in the electoral process.
