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Less is More: Changing Campaign Finance
By lace | May 2, 2008
Every little bit does count, especially for Senators Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. As a general rule, campaign cash seems to be leaning more on the petty side as opposed to the elite building up a candidate’s war chest. From the year 2000 up to the recent April FEC reporting quarter, contributions less than $200 have increasingly made up a large portion of a candidate’s treasury. More than half of Clinton and Obama’s funds have come from small donations while Senator McCain’s small contributions make up a slightly less proportion. This is largely due to successful direct mail fundraising and the utilization of the internet.
Fundraising as we know it is turning over a new leaf…
Barack Obama Cash on Hand: $51,074,000
55% - $200 or less
Hillary Clinton Cash on Hand: $31,792,198
50%- $200 or less
John McCain Cash on Hand: $11,579,714
20%- $200 or less
Perhaps this is a sign of increased party polarization, or maybe Americans are realizing the importance of political participation…either way I’m glad I sent a check to McCain.
Topics: John McCain, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, fundraising |
May 2nd, 2008 at 10:22 pm
Historically the Republican Party’s proportion of small donations has been higher than the Democratic Party’s, so I can’t help but feel as though John McCain’s small amount is reflecting many conservatives dissatisfaction with his candidacy. I have no doubt that conservatives will vote for McCain in November - the challenge is getting all of our fellow conservatives to help now by donating or volunteering.