ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) – Republican Rick Lazio’s underfunded campaign for governor of New York attracted big donors dedicated to anti-terror efforts after he called for a probe of funding for the proposed Ground Zero mosque.

State records show Long Island real estate developer and philanthropist Lawrence Kadish and his wife, Susan, contributed $75,000 to Lazio’s campaign beginning July 26.

Kadish has served the Hudson Institute think tank for global security, which states Kadish had advised Americans for Victory over Terrorism and advocacy groups for Israel.

Lazio and Kadish, an active Republican donor in Lazio’s base, didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

Lazio began calling for a probe July 7.

Democrats accused Lazio of exploiting the controversy.

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