The 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled the lower court was right in issuing a preliminary injunction to keep the state from imposing limitations on certain contributions going to and from political parties and political action committees.

The underlying issue in the case is whether political committees not formally affiliated with a political party or candidate can receive unlimited contributions for independent expenditures.

The state Republican Party, GOP lawmakers, and others argue the state’s cap on such contributions is unconstitutional. The state appealed, arguing limiting such contributions is in New Mexico’s interest as it tries to prevent corruption and the appearance of corruption in campaign spending.

The case now moves back to the federal district court where a decision on the merits is expected to be in favor of those challenging the contribution limits.