The money side of the Democratic race to succeed retiring U-S Senator Chuck Hagel is heating up.
Behlen Manufacturing chairman Tony Raimondo has given another $450,000 to his own campaign...triggering the so-called "millionaire's amendment" allowing Scott Kleeb to accept larger donations from contributors.
Kleeb can now take up to $6,900 from individual donors...three times the limit before Raimondo's move. The Kleeb campaign wasted no time e-mailing supporterss, asking them to double their contributions so Kleeb can buy more tv ads to keep pace.
Kleeb spokesman Joe Zepecki says the campaign is not surprised by Raimondo since the Columbus businessman had said when entering the race he'd be willing to put up $500,000 of his own money.
Zepecki says Kleeb has built widespread support across the state...funding his campaign with smaller contributions by hundreds of donors while Raimondo has had to basically fund his own campaign.
The winner of the Democratic primary will likely face former governor and USDA Secretary Mike Johanns...an overwhelming favorite over political newcomer Pat Flynn.
