Town Won't Release Name of Obama Donor

UPDATE, 5:30 P.M.: Durham Town Administrator Todd Selig issued a press release this afternoon saying that the town cannot respond to a Right to Know request because no documents exist.

Americans for Prosperity — New Hampshire, WMUR and the Associated Press all filed Right to Know requests Monday seeking the release of the identity of an anonymous donor who offered to pay up to $20,000 for security related to President Obama's visit to Durham.

But Selig said that since the offer was made verbally, and no documents pertaining to the donation exist at this time, the information cannot be released.

"When the Town is in receipt of the funds, we will most certainly entertain further requests for information and will provide that information in accordance with the NH Right to Know Law," he said.

Selig added that the town did receive one check Monday morning from Martha and David Burton for $150. The subject line of the check read "Obama visit expenses."

An earlier story follows:

Americans for Prosperity – New Hampshire announced this morning that it has filed a Right to Know request seeking information on the anonymous donor who will be paying for extra security required for President Obama's visit to Durham.

"The people of Durham have a right to know the identity of this anonymous donor and what his or her intentions are with giving this significant amount of money," said Corey Lewandowski, who serves as AFP-NH Director.

The Right to Know request was submtted this morning to Durham Town Administrator Todd Selig. It asked for all information related to the anonymous donation the town is prepared to receive.

"The donor may have business pending before the town or may be trying to skirt (Federal Election Campaign) law, which precludes this sort of donation," Lewandowski said.

"We are deeply troubled over the anonymity of this donation and hope Town Administrator Selig will respond to our request in a timely manner," he added.

The $20,000 anonymous donation was announced by the Town of Durham

, saying that the town should not have to pay for the visit since it is a campaign event and not an official presidential visit.

Obama will speak at Oyster River High School at 2 p.m. today.