Ohio Gov. launches "527" group to explore 2016 bid
Another Republican is entering the fray to explore a 2016 run for the White House: Ohio Gov. John Kasich.
Kasich has started a tax-exempt political group -- a 527 organization, designated for the section of the tax code that outlines its rules -- called "New Day for America," according to paperwork filed with the Internal Revenue Service.
"We're going to start getting around the country more meeting and talking with more people," the two-term governor, and former 2000 presidential candidate, said in a video on the group's website. The web address previews a platform that would focus on ensuring a balanced budget, and reforms of the tax code and healthcare.
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Kasich will be able to use his 527 to accept unlimited donations while he contemplates a possible presidential run - and not once he is officially a candidate. The entity cannot be used to advocate directly for a national candidate.
527 groups are proving a popular vehicle for exploratory financing among state governors considering White House bids. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has also established his own 527, called "Our American Revival."
Kasich has also started travelling the campaign circuit. Last week, the former congressman made a stop at New Hampshire's "First in the Nation" Republican summit, accompanying other presidential hopefuls like Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush.
The Ohio Republican said in an NBC News interview Sunday that he was becoming "more and more serious" about a presidential campaign.