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NYC mayor kicks in $44,600 for Schwarzenegger re-election

The Associated Press | Monday, Apr 10 2006 7:15 PM

Last Updated: Monday, Apr 10 2006 7:15 PM

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's campaign has picked up a $44,600 donation from New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

The billionaire mayor contributed the money - the maximum contribution allowed under state law - on Friday, state records show.

It's not the first time Bloomberg has done a good turn for his fellow Republican. In March 2005, the mayor was a featured speaker at a New York City fundraiser that raised $500,000 for the actor-turned-governor's political operation.

Bloomberg's check suggests a shift in loyalties. In 2001, before he was mayor, records show he donated $1,000 to California state Treasurer Phil Angelides, one of two leading Democrats vying to challenge Schwarzenegger this November.

Bloomberg's office did not respond to a telephone call seeking comment.

Last week, the mayor advised wealthy political donors in New York to ask a question before they write a check for a candidate, "What are you going to do for us?" He said local and national candidates who troll for campaign cash in New York should be supported financially only if they promise to side with the city on certain issues, such as the distribution of homeland security funds.