There were estimates at the start of this presidential race suggesting that a record $3 billion would be spent. While it's too early to tell if those estimates were overblown, there sure is evidence to suggest we're inching toward that mark.
Putting aside spending by Super PACs, which have infused unprecented influence in the race, both sides are bringing in astronomical sums of cash. Recall the party George Clooney hosted at his home in LA this month, which reportedly earned the Obama campaign a record $14 million. Just yesterday, Mitt Romney is said to have raised $10 million during a three-day swing through the New York area.
And it's only May!
Sarah Jessica Parker has announced she'll be hosting a fundraiser for the President that's sure to bring in another big sum, while former Vice President Dick Cheney is scheduled to raise money with Romney in Wyoming in July. We'll take a look at the fundraising issue - and this new article - with New York Magazine's Benjamin Wallace-Wells at noon ET today.
PANEL
Eric Bates, Rolling Stone
Patricia Murphy, The Daily Beast/Citizen Jane Politics (@1patriciamurphy)
Joan Walsh, Salon.com (@joanwalsh)
Carol Lee, The Wall Street Journal (@carol_e_lee)
GUESTS
Jen Psaki, Fmr. White House Deputy Communications Director (@jrpsaki)
Ben Wallace-Wells, New York Magazine
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Someone please tell Patricia ... or anyone else ... that Cory Booker said it was "nauseating" of BOTH sides (his opinion), and not just what President Obama's ads are talking about. Additionally ... and as I was happy to see Joan and others comment correctly on ... comparing Bain Capital's record to the fear tactics used by Romney and the right in the Jeremiah Wright case is just plain ridiculous. There is no comparison. Commenting on Bain is directly addressing what Romney is trying to run on. Commenting on Jeremiah Wright is simple-minded and racist fear baiting.