Monday, June 02, 2008

Associated Press

Sen. Susan Collins has extended her cash-on-hand advantage over Rep. Tom Allen to more than $2 million in Maine’s U.S. Senate race, according to newly filed campaign finance reports.The latest figures are contained in “pre-primary” reports filed with the Federal Election Commission that include fundraising and disbursements from April 1 to May 21.

Collins’ report showed that she raised $304,485 during the period, bringing the Republican incumbent’s total for the campaign to $5.83 million. She spent $185,703 since April 1, leaving her with $4.63 million in cash.

Democrat Allen raised $219,650, lifting his overall contributions to $3.93 million. He spent $338,426 since April 1, leaving him with $2.57 million in cash. …

Anthony Corrado, a campaign finance expert and government professor at Colby College, said Collins’ lead in available cash is significant.

“With a surplus of some $2 million, this will help insure that Senator Collins will be able to not only put forward a very competitive campaign, but will be able to respond not only to her opponent but to any outside groups that may get involved in the race,” he said.