Tampabay.com
JULY 02, 2009

Flores reports $150k haul

Miami Republican Rep. Anitere Flores is sending out an email to supporters,
etc., boasting that she raised $150k in three weeks*** in her race for Sen. D-38.
Not a bad haul. But now that there's no legislative session (during which
fundraising is banned) she still has some catch-up to do to keep her competitive
with Miami Rep. David Rivera.

At the end of last quarter, Rivera had raised $236k and spent $3k. Flores,
who started running just before session, had raised just $9k. Rep. Marcelo
Llorente's leaving of the race should make the contest a little clearer.

The conventional wisdom: Flores needs less money than Rivera because most of
her House district is in the Senate district. Being female helps as well. Rivera
wouldn't disclose how much he has raised this past quarter, but sounded
confident.

“I hope Anitere does well this quarter because for every dollar she raises
now I’ll receive two or three from most of those folks next quarter,” Rivera
said

Here's Flores' email:

Dear Friends & Family,

The first fundraising quarter for our campaign for the Florida Senate
came to a close this week.  Thanks to all of your support and generosity, we
exceeded all expectations and raised more than $150,000 in just 53 days!  Even
more significant are the hundreds of phone calls and emails we received from so
many of you, offering your time and eager to join our campaign.

You will hear it said that political races are won only by money – we
know that is NOT TRUE! Nothing can beat hard work and my unwavering commitment
to representing your best interests in Tallahassee – That will be what
ultimately decides this campaign! 

Very importantly, we have the home team advantage: as the State
Representative for District 114 I currently serve the largest portion of Senate
District 38. Since my election in 2004 my team and I have worked tirelessly to
constantly reflect your values and respond to your concerns. That is because
this is my home too! It is where I have always lived.  Many personal milestones
have taken place here including my high school and college graduations, my
wedding and the birth of my son.  I am so honored to be your neighbor, your
co-worker and your fellow parishioner. 

You, my friends and family, have helped lead me to victory before, and I
know that together we will do it again!  Thank you for your constant support. 

Sincerely, 

Anitere

***Error mine. It is 53 days. MC

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