DES MOINES - A state senator has filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission, arguing congressional candidate Ed Fallon is using his for-profit business to assist his bid for office.

State Sen. Dick Dearden, the Des Moines Democrat who is making the complaint, is backing U.S. Rep. Leonard Boswell, who is facing Fallon in the 3rd District Democratic primary.

Dearden announced the filing of the complaint at a news conference at the Statehouse Wednesday.

During Fallon's time as a state legislator and his run for governor in 2006, he was a strong advocate for reducing the influence of money in politics.

But Dearden said Fallon's business, I'm for Iowa, raises and spends money without having to disclose it.

Dearden also says the group's Web site is being used to further Fallon's campaign.

"You know, he talks about these things but when there's people contributing money, and nobody knows who they are, I think it's time that the FEC got involved," Dearden said.

In a statement, Fallon said he welcomed an investigation by the FEC.

"I live simply. I've always been a voice for ethics in government, and I have never taken a penny from a PAC or lobbyist," Fallon said. "Clearly, Boswell's people are trying to discredit me on my strengths instead of discussing the real challenges facing America. Voters deserve better than this."

Scott Ourth, manager of Boswell's campaign, said they aren't behind the complaint.

"If you look at the evidence, it's obvious that he's violated, you know, ethics rules and most probably the law," Ourth said.

Ourth said people can look at Boswell's campaign finance reports to see who is contributing to his campaign.

"We play by the rules. It appears that he doesn't," Ourth said.

Charlotte Eby can be reached at (515) 243-0138 or chareby@aol.com.