For much of the modern political era, Democratic candidates have been vastly outspent by Republican special interests, out-of-touch wealthy donors, and other sources of campaign cash that don't put ordinary citizens first.
However, as our exciting, experienced, and competent field of Presidential candidates released their overwhelmingly successful fundraising numbers over the past few days, one fact is very, very clear.
It's a great day to be a Democrat.
While some of the numbers are still out, Democratic candidates have amassed nearly 80 million dollars in this quarter alone.
Senator Obama led the pack with 32.5 million, shattering previous records. Senator Clinton also turned in a
strong quarter, raising 27 million. Former Senator Edwards
raised 9 million, with Governor Richardson
close behind at 7 million. Senator Dodd also turned in a respectable 3.25 million, with information for Senator Biden and Gravel and Represenative Kucinich not yet unavailable.
The total raised by all the Democratic candidates in the first six months of this race? Over 150 million.
Certainly, money isn't everything. But the Republican advantage in cash has for too long allowed them to drown our our message, distort the facts, and buy election after election. It's unfortunate, because we see where their stewardship of the country has taken us. While our candidates represent change and hope, one might argue that Republicans stand for deficit, death, division, and deceit. While the race is still young, a refreshing change is underway, and it looks like they won't be able to buy their way out of the electoral mess they've created for themselves in 2008.
Indeed, look at recent headlines about some of the Republican frontrunners. No one is talking about their fundraising prowess, or how they're engaging and exciting voters.
Instead...
Today, John McCain announced
poor fundraising numbers and more staff cutbacks.
In the past week, Mitt Romney's campaign has been dogged about his
abuse of a family pet (as well as his staffers
illegally pretending to be law enforcement officials).
Money talks. Democratic voters are showing their enthusiasm and backing it up with contributions, large and small, to their preferred candidates. It's been pretty clear all along that we're fired up about our choices.
And the Republicans? Well, when the top three options are a
Dog Torturer,
Philanderer, and a
Serial Divorcee...
Like I said. It's a great day to be a Democrat.
Cross-posted on the College Democrats of Wisconsin Blog. 
