The hearing into possible violations of campaign laws by former Gov. Mike Easley's campaign and the state Democratic Party will be held in a familiar location: Raleigh's downtown Clarion hotel.

That's where board members met several years ago to hear testimony about the campaign of then-House Speaker Jim Black, reports Andy Curliss.

The location is largely to accommodate the media and what is expected to be larger public interest. Elections officials have a small hearing room at the board's regular offices, but had been looking for an alternate spot.

The hearings will open at 11 a.m. on Oct. 26 and continue as needed.