Specter tops Hoeffel in fund-raising

[Freddie Stubbs]

By Carrie Budoff

Inquirer Staff Writer


Despite spending more than $15 million to win the Republican primary, U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter holds a 2-to-1 fund-raising advantage over his general election opponent, Democratic U.S. Rep. Joseph M. Hoeffel, according to campaign finance reports released yesterday.

From April through June, Specter collected $2.3 million, while Hoeffel brought in $1.1 million. At the end of June, Specter had $3.3 million in the bank to spend, compared with $1.3 million for Hoeffel.

In two other closely watched races - the Sixth Congressional District and 13th Congressional District - the Democratic candidates edged out their Republican opponents in fund-raising.

Political analysts say the fund-raising gap in the Senate contest illustrates the challenge Hoeffel faces in knocking off Specter, a four-term senator who by virtue of his committee leadership positions raises money quickly and easily.

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