Salazar campaign on cruise control

Congressman John Salazar continues to lead his Republican rival for the 3rd CD, Scott Tipton, in fundraising almost three-to-one, according to recent federal election records.

Salazar is sitting on a $1.2 million war chest while Tipton’s suitcase is holding about $343,000. Tipton raised slightly more than Salazar during the recent recording period, but that included an infusion of $10,000 worth of personal in-kind donations.

Salazar’s campaign continues to motor in a “laid-back” position, holding onto funds until after the summer. Tipton has put thousands of miles on the road campaigning throughout the large district, but his campaign hasn’t caught much traction.

The Republican and Democratic congressional campaigns in the 3rd CD have challenging advertising buys with over a half dozen separate media markets in the district: Pueblo, San Louis Valley, Durango, Grand Junction/Montrose, Gunnison, Glenwood Springs/Aspen, Craig, and Steamboat.

Since there is no major TV, radio, or newspaper that covers the total area, it is near impossible to reach 3rd CD voters without an intensive direct mail campaign. And that takes a lot of money.

Since it is unlikely that the Republican Party will target Tipton’s race with a 3 to 1 disadvantage of funds, it looks like the Salazar camp can continue to cruise.

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