As the campaign continues to move forward, I am in awe at the outpouring of support we have received from throughout North Florida. In my 28 years of elected service, I have never seen this type of support, and for that I thank you! In November, we will take back our seat in Congress for the people, and I owe it to you!
This past quarter, we exceeded our expectations in fundraising. Since the beginning of the year, my responsibilities as Democratic Leader in the Florid Senate have consumed most of my time, and my ability to raise money limited. But I am pleased to report that in the last quarter, we raised $43,000 in donations to the campaign – more than last quarter. Most impressive is the fact that we raised contributions from nearly 300 contributors with an average donation of $145. Knowing that real people in North Florida took the time to give to our campaign means so much to me. It shows that everyday citizens who seek better representation in government cared enough to support our race. I am truly humbled.
Unfortunately, my opponents – Allen Boyd in the primary election and Steve Southerland in the general election – are being bankrolled by big special interests, but I have been seeking small donations of $10 and $25 dollars. I know that a small donation from a voter in the district is worth more than any PAC check out of Washington.
This past weekend, a story ran in the Gainesville Sun about a little-known state senator who wanted to represent the people in Washington. He sought small contributions and walked door-to-door, while his opponents accepted big campaign contributions. But he worked hard and he won, and that is what we are going to do in November. That great man was Lawton Chiles.
Again, thank you for your support during this campaign. Together, we will win back our seat in Congress and claim it for the people of North Florida!
Sincerely,
Al