Quote Originally Posted by Herald-Tribune
Republicans have long considered the Sarasota-Bradenton area a key fundraising stronghold, but this year Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama is challenging that notion.

Federal Elections Commission reports through August show Obama is well ahead of John McCain in raising money here. Obama raised $209,000 more than Republican John McCain.

Sarasota County Democratic Party chairwoman Rita Ferrandino said the fundraising success shows the progress Democrats have made in the region.

"I think we have far more momentum right now," she said.

Sarasota County Republican Party chairman Eric Robinson expects McCain or Palin to make a fundraising visit to the area before Nov. 4.

Thanks to a contentious three-way primary battle, Republican candidate for Sheriff Tom Knight finds himself behind in the money race against his Democratic opponent Curtis Lavarello.

As of Sept. 12, Lavarello had about $8,000 in his campaign account, compared with about $1,200 for Knight, according to the latest campaign finance reports filed last week with the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections.

From Aug. 22 to Sept. 12, Lavarello raised about $6,800. Knight raised $5,300.

Knight admitted it's been a little tough raising money after the primary. Lots of would-be donors have already given the maximum allowed and he's having to convince would-be donors that though Democrats haven't won the Sheriff's Office more than 30 years, the political environment is making Democrats more competitive.
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