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Political novice raises the stakes

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A Democratic political newcomer has recently made a strong fundraising push in his attempt to unseat Republican veteran Congressman Joe Wilson.

Rob Miller, a Lady's Island Democrat and Iraq war veteran, has raised more than $200,000 in his election bid, said his campaign manager Lachlan McIntosh.

In a news release issued Tuesday, McIntosh stated that the former Marine has raised more than any of Wilson's opponents from previous House campaigns.

But Miller's cash is still short of what Wilson, who has held the 2nd Congressional District seat since winning a special election in 2001, has on hand. The district stretches from Hilton Head Island to Columbia.

Wilson raised $75,000 in the past two weeks and will have about $300,000 on hand for the fundraising quarter that ended Monday, according to campaign manager Preston Grisham.

U.S. House candidates are required to file quarterly reports with the Federal Elections Commission. Campaigns must file with the FEC by April 15 the totals raised from Jan. 1 to March 31.

In a freewheeling campaign finance environment where individuals, corporations and unions can all donate thousands of dollars to candidates, the ability to raise large sums can be crucial to a successful run.

A large bank account means the ability to buy pricey TV and radio ads, conduct mass mailings and hire campaign staff, as well as trigger national support and more money.

Miller and Wilson, though not alone in the race, are the first to announce their fundraising numbers.

Hilton Head Island Democrat Blaine Lotz, a retired U.S. Air Force colonel and former intelligence officer, was traveling Tuesday and couldn't be reached for comment.

Republican Phil Black, a Lexington County developer, said Tuesday that he hadn't raised much money so far, but points to that with pride.

Black said he objects to the system where candidates are measured by money more than their positions and abilities.

"I'm hoping to spend about one-tenth of what Joe (Wilson) has to spend," Black said.

"If it works, it'll be the first time, I guess."

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