Mogul New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine donated $87,000 to an influential umbrella group of African-American churches whose leader recently endorsed him, it was reported yesterday.
The Rev. Reginald Jackson, of the powerful Black Ministers’ Council, told the Star Ledger of Newark, “I always support who I believe is the best candidate . . . It was a very difficult decision to make.”
But challenger Chris Christie’s campaign said it was “improper” for Corzine to contribute “large sums to organizations with a vested interest in the governor’s race.”
Corzine initially donated $50,000 to Jackson’s church then made a second donation of $37,000 through his foundation in July 2008, the Star Ledger reported.
“The donations the governor made to Reverend Jackson were completely appropriate and completely transparent,” a Corzine spokeswoman said.
Meanwhile, Vice President Joe Biden, who yesterday campaigned for Corzine, said, “We need smart, honest, serious, tough politicians who get it.”