The Federal Election Commission general counsel’s office is recommending that the watchdog agency continue to exempt the Socialist Workers Party National Campaign Committee from certain reporting requirements because of the risk it poses to the group’s members and supporters. [IMGCAP(1)]

Since 1979, the Socialist Workers Party National Campaign Committee and related entities that support Socialist candidates have not had to publicly disclose the names and addresses of donors and vendors, although they are required to keep records of all transactions, as do other political committees.

In a draft advisory opinion the FEC will consider Thursday, the FEC’s general counsel recommends extending this disclosure exemption through Dec. 31, 2008.

The Socialist Workers Party submitted to the FEC a large number of exhibits detailing examples of harassment of SWP workers and candidates, including attacks and vandalism against SWP headquarters and violence or threats of violence against members of the group.

New Blue Dogs. The Blue Dog Coalition has added two members, Reps. Earl Pomeroy (D-N.D.) and Dennis Cardoza (D-Calif.), bringing its membership to 36.

“Representatives Pomeroy and Cardoza will join the Blue Dogs in continuing to advocate common-sense policies that place a priority on getting our fiscal house in order and paying down the burdensome national debt,” said Rep. Jim Turner (Texas), co-chairman for administration of the group of conservative Democrats.

Circus Act. The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey circus will perform in 2322 Rayburn House Office Building from 3 to 4:30 p.m today. The event is not open to the public; Members and staffers should call (703) 448-4090 to RSVP.

— Amy Keller and Sara Faiwell