Last Minute Dash for Campaign Cash

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The third quarter of 2009 ends at midnight. For those of us who write about how congressional campaigns are financed, that means one thing: lots of urgent appeals for last-minute contributions.

Candidates for Congress want to stuff as much money as they can into their third-quarter campaign finance reports, which itemize most receipts and expenditures for July, August and September and are due to the Federal Election Commission by Oct. 15.

The national party committees also get in on the act. They file monthly reports, not quarterly reports, and their September documents are due to the FEC by Oct. 20.

The media and opposing campaigns are eager to analyze these reports for signs of strength or weakness.

Here are some excerpts from fundraising solicitations I've seen today:

Colorado Democrat Andrew Romanoff, who is challenging Sen. Michael Bennet in a Democratic primary: "Today is your chance to catch the wave. Two weeks ago, Andrew Romanoff announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. Our campaign is winning support from every corner of Colorado. Join us RIGHT NOW by going online and pledging your support." (Sent by finance committee chair Dee Wisor)

Louisiana Republican Sen. David Vitter, who is being challenged by Democratic Rep. Charlie Melancon: "As you know, the health care debate is surging ahead at full steam in Washington, and every ounce of support I can generate by midnight tonight will show President Obama how much the people of Louisiana oppose his intrusive health care plans."

Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Barney Frank (on behalf of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, the campaign arm of House Democrats): "With the media closely watching both parties' third quarter fundraising totals, nothing would put fear in the hearts of the right wing extremists who are propagating this kind of nonsense than for us to out-raise them online."

House Minority Leader John A. Boehner of Ohio (on behalf of the National Republican Congressional Committee, the campaign arm of House Republicans): "Now I'd like to ask one more time for a generous contribution of $10, $25, or $50 to help us keep fighting the jobs-killing Obama-Pelosi agenda - don't forget every dollar donated between now and midnight tonight will be doubled by my Republican colleagues."

Pennsylvania Democratic Rep. Christopher Carney: "We are only 8 hours away from our crucial midnight deadline. September 30th is often the filing used by potential challengers to determine whether or not to enter the race. This is an opportunity to send a clear message to our opposition. I hope you'll once again stand with me."

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