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The Political Geography of Campaign Finance: Contributions to 2008 Republican Presidential Candidates

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 September 2012

Karen Sebold ,
Scott Limbocker ,
Andrew Dowdle  and
Patrick Stewart
Karen Sebold
Affiliation:
University of Arkansas
Scott Limbocker
Affiliation:
Vanderbilt University
Andrew Dowdle
Affiliation:
University of Arkansas
Patrick Stewart
Affiliation:
University of Arkansas
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Abstract

In fundraising, potential candidates who do not collect sizable amounts of “early money” may be effectively eliminated even before the start of the Iowa Caucus. This winnowing raises concern about the impact money has on narrowing the field of candidates from whom voters can choose. To better grasp patterns of successful fundraising, we explore where candidates obtain funds during the preprimary and primary periods. We use individual contributions data from the Federal Election Commission during the preprimary and primary periods of the 2008 Republican presidential nomination contest. Findings suggest that although California, New York, and Texas provide disproportionate amounts of early financing, the ability of presidential aspirants to broaden their support is indicative of campaign success.

Type
Features
Information
PS: Political Science & Politics , Volume 45 , Issue 4 , October 2012 , pp. 688 - 693
Copyright
Copyright © American Political Science Association 2012 

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