underdogs and influence

[Rod Cameron <rodcm@aol.com>]

As a former underdog, I raised about 1/3 of what my opponent raised.  PAC money made up only about 20% of that amount.  I ended up paying about 20% of total expenditures out of my own pocket.  The majority of individuals who gave to my campaign did so out of the belief that I was a better candidate, not out of some desire to gain influence.  I can say that because I knew most of my contributors personally and shared similar views with them.  A few contributed in case I won so they would have access, however.  I can say that because upon seeing my opponents finance disclosure report, I noticed several names who gave to both of our campaigns, often the same amount.  Talk about hedging your bets.