Monroe, Ga. 4/5/2007 1:49:48 AM
News / Politics

Barack Obama Rivals Hillary Clinton in Campaign Contributions, Rakes in $25 Million in First Quarter

The staggering $26 million raised in campaign contributions by Hillary Clinton has nearly been equaled by her closest Democratic rival Barack Obama. The Illinois senator brought in $25 million in campaign contributions during the first three months of 2007 to stay on par with Sen. Clinton.

Perhaps more important to the Obama campaign is the amount that is available for the primary race. Of the $25 million raised thus far $23.5 can be used towards earning the Democratic nomination for the 2008 presidential race.

Campaign contributions are limited to $2,300 from a single donor for the primary while candidates are also allowed to receive an additional $2,300 for the general election but that money must be held in a separate fund.

With access to $23.5 million for his primary run Obama has proven his ability to appeal to a large segment of America. His impressive contribution haul has been achieved through donations from over 100,000 individuals.

Clinton has yet to release figures related to how much of the $26 million she has access to in the primary race. As part of her appeal for contributions the New York senator has been asking for the maximum amount of $4,600 from donors. It is likely that she will not have as much money at her disposal as Obama when her campaign reveals the numbers.

Money that is earmarked for the general election can not be used by a candidate in their primary race. Any money that is part of a general election fund must be returned to the donor if the candidate does not win the primary.

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