Hart Pursues GOP Nomination, but Trails Altmire's Dollars

October 16th, 2007, posted by Stanley

Reaping the traditional financial advantages of incumbency, Western Pennsylvania members of Congress enjoyed significant fund-raising advantages over prospective challengers in next year’s congressional races.

But while still far behind Rep. Jason Altimire, D-McCandless, the incumbent who ousted her last year, former Rep. Melissa Hart has a significant financial edge over former county Councilman Ron Francis in the race for the GOP nomination in the 4th Congressional District.

In another district in the region which has the potential for a competitive race, the Democratic challengers to Rep. Tim Murphy, R-Upper St. Clair, faced an even greater contribution gap, according to third quarter contribution reports filed with the Federal Elections Commission.

In the 4th District, Mr. Altmire has raised a total of $895,759 in the election cycle. His campaign committee had $737,418 in cash on hand at the end of the reporting period on Sept. 30. Ms. Hart raised $238,537 and had $218,798 in available cash. Mr. Francis had raised $135,045, but $20,000 of that was a loan he guaranteed to his committee, balancing the $98,369 in campaign cash reported.

Filed under:

District 4 / Jason Altmire (D)

Still Has a Hart-beat...

On October 16th, 2007 thegentlemanfro... said:

I’m not sure how I feel about the potential re-emergence of Hart. On one hand, she is a proven vote-getter in a lean-Dem district. On the other hand, she clearly began taking that fact for granted last year. She can probably do well in the campaign financing department, and perhaps she’ll combine those abilities with a new appreciation for the privilege of serving the 4th district in Washington. I know former Councilman Francis. He is a smart, personable individual who can also win the support of Reagan Dems, which is crucial to success in the 4th. However, is he the right person to take on Altmire? I still hope state Senator Orie takes another look at the race, but with Hart back in, Orie will probably sit it out. I seriously doubt Altmire will get a free pass next year, regardless of who faces him, as this seat is in the national GOP’s sights as a good pick-up opportunity.

Hart is damaged goods...

On October 19th, 2007 Anonymous said:

And that’s never something to run on.

From where I sit, her defeat was a strong statement by the voters, and she’s not likely to oust Altmire. it’s not like Bush isn’t still dragging down the GOP! And Hart got few style points for her bizarre behavior on Election Night. Her wild-eyed denials about vote totals in the North were a little freaky….

A GOP primary would be perfect for Altmire, as it would sap Republican funds and have them trashing each other….while Jason could sit on the sidelines and continue to raise money for the general election.

Pilt