Challenger Has Big Bankroll
Physician Maureen Reed posted another strong fundraising quarter in the final three months of 2009, a sign she will not be easy to dispatch in the Democratic primary for Minnesota's 6th district seat.
Reed raised $208,000 in the fourth quarter, to push her total receipts to $575,000 since joining the race in the spring. She started 2010 with $388,000 cash on hand.
The Reed campaign noted in a release that 99 percent of the funds came from individuals and over 90 percent of donations came from Minnesota.
It's an impressive showing for a political unknown who lacks the backing of the party establishment; her Democratic rival, state Sen. Tarryl Clark (D), is the favorite of Minnesota Democratic leaders. Clark also has been endorsed by abortion rights group EMILY's List. Clark ended September with $270,000 cash on hand. She raised $308,000 since declaring her candidacy July 28, through September.
Reed and Clark will fight it out for the right to take on second term Rep. Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.), who reported banking $617,000 at the end of the third quarter. Bachmann announced Wednesday that conservative superstar and former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin (R) will be campaigning with her in Minnesota in April.
CQ Politics rates the general election contest Leans Republican.
To follow all the 2010 House races, check out the CQ Politics election map.
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