Democrats Come Out of Their Bunker to Say ... Nothing

After repeated inquiries went unanswered, Sunshine State News posted its story about Florida Democratic Party spending on Tuesday.

Only then did FDP "communications director" Eric Jotkoff respond. Here's his e-mail:

"Besides to inform you that your article about the Florida Democratic Party is riddled with inaccuracies, misstatements and flat out lies, until Sunshine State News discloses your funding sources and shows a commitment to real transparency we have no comment."

In other words, the FDP will determine journalistic bona fides, and communicate accordingly -- or not. As for the copious errors? No word on that either.

The party brass had a weekend and two workdays to come up with answers, but stayed incommunicado. That's "transparency"?

Here are my questions still awaiting answers:

1. From party distribution and expenditure spreadsheets, I have calculated that FDP spent $46.3 million from 2007-2009. Please confirm that figure.

2. Among the larger F&B items in 2007 were $1,683 and $5,210 for two dates at Le Cirque; $5,797 for 10 dates at Chez Pierre; and $5,692 for five dates at the Silver Slipper. There also was $11,200 spent on rental and catering at Yankee Stadium in 2009. Please state the precise purpose of these expenditures.

3. What did Jeff Ryan do for the party during this period when he was paid $469,517 in compensation and expenses?

4. I notice that direct expenditures take place on the same date as many of the reimbursements to the member. This would appear to be costs for an event or meeting. If so, why did the member get reimbursed for travel if the party paid for travel as well? If not for that member then for whom?