MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Taxpayers have paid nearly $900,000 in legal fees related to the John Doe investigation of coordinated efforts between the campaign of Governor Scott Walker and his supporters. Current caps negotiated with the private law firms, which have been increased as costs rise, allow the state to spend up to about $1.1 million. The investigation is looking into coordinated campaign activity between the governor’s campaign and outside groups, which is banned by state law. One of those groups filed a lawsuit. The investigation is on hold after a federal judge ruled that some campaign coordination is legal, although his ruling could be overturned on appeal. Another group also filed a lawsuit against the agency charged with enforcing the state’s election laws. Future litigation will increase costs.
