BY MIKE FAHER
When it comes to raising money, political newcomer William Russell continues to outpace his opponent, longtime U.S. Rep. John Murtha.
The latest campaign-finance reports covering the quarter from July 1 through Sept. 30 show the Republican challenger’s contributions nearly reaching the $1.6 million mark.
In contrast, Murtha – the Democratic incumbent – raised $469,340.
The gap between the candidates narrows, however, when considering money raised during the course of the entire election.
The Murtha for Congress Committee has tallied almost $2.1 million so far, while the William Russell for Congress organization has garnered $2.5 million, according to Federal Election Commission reports.
Those documents also show that Russell has spent far more. His expenditures in the latest quarter – the one in which he has been most active politically – are more than $1.5 million.
Russell has aired several television commercials in recent weeks, including one featuring Murtha’s comments about racism in western Pennsylvania.
Murtha spent $460,557 during the same time period. His campaign has issued several mailings highlighting his achievements.
The congressman ended the last finance-reporting period with nearly $591,000 in cash on hand and only $9,104 in outstanding debts.
Russell, on the other hand, had $333,414 in cash and $397,396 in debts.
But his campaign manager, Peg Luksik, said fundraising has remained strong since that report was filed.
“Money is not a problem,” she said.
