Big money has arrived in northern Michigan political races, according to filing reports and the Michigan Campaign Finance Network (MCFN), which tracks money raised and spent in political races. MCFN Executive Director Craig Mauger says the race for the State House in the 104th District (Grand Traverse County) is one that’s attracting significant outside money. “The 104th has seen more attention and advertising,” says Mauger. “Lansing-based groups see it as an important race.”
MCFN has tracked $68,040 spent in the race as of Oct. 12 by and for the two candidates, incumbent Republican Larry Inman and his challenger, Democrat Dan O’Neil. Thus far Inman’s campaign has raised $76,693 and O’Neil’s $137,917.
Inman’s top donors are Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association, $10,000; Health PAC, Health & Hospital Association, $7,500; and Consumers Energy, $2,750. O’Neil’s are Michigan Regional Council of Carpenters, $5,000; International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, $5,000; Sheet Metal Workers Local 7, $5,000; Michigan Laborers Political League, $2,500.
Mauger notes the sea change in how campaigns are funded, even in just the last eight years. “It used to be a lot was driven by the candidates. Now a lot is done by outside groups, non-profits or Super PACs.” With the elections just three weeks away, he says consumers are likely to see more ads from outside groups, with taglines such as “Not authorized by any candidate” or “Paid for by” someone other than the candidate.
In the race for the State Senate in the 35th District, representing a dozen northwestern Michigan counties including Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau and Manistee, Republican Curt Vanderwall has raised $147,950. His…
