This time the Democratic party in Washington is supporting him. In 2006 David Nachbar was going to run against him, but withdrew because his papers were filed improperly, and Massa was gaining the endorsements of local party organizations. In the general election, Massa lost narrowly, by less than 6,000 out of almost 200,000 votes.
The district clearly leans Republican. The State Board of elections shows as of last month a registration of 177,704 Republicans to 120,710 Democrats out of a total registration of 407,684. Kuhl ran as an incumbent, and Massa did not have that much support from the national Democratic party. Meanwhile when it looked like Massa might win the national Republican party put in a lot of late money to enable Kuhl to squeak out a win.
But this cycle will be different. Come below the fold to see what I mean.
First, the FEC data from the 2006 race, as of 12/31/2006
net receipts net disb cash on hand debt net position
Massa 1,511,535 1,501,786 9,818 67,761 (57,943)
Kuhl 1,450,958 1,475,375 15,684 40,491 (24,807)
Now the Sept 30 2006 figures:
net receipts net disb cash on hand debt net position
Massa 344,914 139,407 215,685 75,093 140,592
Kuhl 358,371 167,971 206,084 0 206,084
Now a couple of quick comments: this is only the direct campaign fundraising and expenditures, and does not include expenditures by party organizations, which were very much to Kuhl's advantage.
Eric is now known, his positions are very much in tune with the district.
And the difference this time is the support of the National Democratic party.
Of course, people at dailykos know Eric. He has been a regularly participant with his Sunday diaries, which you can read at his user page, and if you want to know more about his campaign,including issues and how you can get involved, by all means visit his campaign website (which the first time you visit gives you a choice on the home page between a site optimized for dsl/cable or for dial-up!).
Now the good news. What inspired me to do this diary was a mailing I received from Eric about a forthcoming event, right here in the Nation's Capital. It is cohosted by the American Association for Justice PAC, AFSCME PEOPLE, and the IBEW PAC. What is interesting is the Congressmen who are participating in this event this forthcoming Friday:
Barney Frank
Charlie Rangel
Neil Abercrombie
Gary Ackerman
Michael Arcuri
Joe Baca
Joseph Crowley
Brian Higgins
Maurice Hinchey
Carolyn Maloney
Jerry Nadler
Joe Sestak
Gene Taylor
Anthony Weiner
of course, many of these would be his New York Colleagues. And Joe Sestak, a former Navy admiral, is a logical supporter for a career naval officer. But Abercrombie is from Hawaii and Baca from California. And the list includes possibly the most liberal member of the House Democratic Caucus, Barney Frank of MA, and its most conservative, Gene Taylor of MS.
This is a high ticket item, with the minimum entry $250. I am going to try to go, even though money is tight for me right now, because I believe that much in Eric.
For those who might be interested, they can contact Scott Dworkin ( scott at massaforcongress dot com ).
Day: TUESDAY DECEMBER 11
Time: 7-9 PM
Location 315 C St. NE
If you can, consider going to show support for Eric. If you cannot, consider going to his web site and giving him a contribution.
Remember, Eric took the lead in organizing the Fighting Dem effort for last cycle. He came so close. With our help this time he WILL win.
Peace.
Peace.