John K. MacIver Institute and Wisconsin John Doe Probe

Update: Reader points out that in October 24, 2011 the MacIver Institute and Americans for Prosperity TV spots were the first pro-Scott Walker ads run in advance of the signature gathering for the Walker Recall.

"The John K. MacIver Institute for Public Policy is an independent, non-partisan 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions are tax-deductible. The Board of Directors of the MacIver Institute has adopted a policy to protect a donor's right to privacy. The MacIver Institute will not discuss nor disclose any information regarding our donors."

So reads the John K. MacIver Institute's self description.

Just wondering why this 501(c)(3) apparently acted on behalf of (or in opposition to) several candidates for elective public office in the 2011 Wisconsin Recall elections.

Perhaps Board members Fred Luber, Steve Fettig, James R. Troupis, Laurie McCallum, and Gerardo (Jerry) H. Gonzalez could explain.

Readers here have pointed out that the MacIver Institute (which teamed up with Americans for Prosperity) to produce the politcal It's Working, Wisconsin - Did it Right spot) is a 501(c)(3). 

This is could be a problem for the GOP front group.

And the MacIver Institute has several close ties to the Koch brothers. 

"Under the Internal Revenue Code, all section 501(c)(3) organizations are absolutely prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office," reads an IRS guide.