Pushing Rope: Patrick Murphy Running For Aleen West's Seat

Democrat Patrick Murphy is going to run in the district 22 Florida congressional primary. Murphy raised $350,000 in three weeks time. The seat is currently held by Allen West.

The press release.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL - Fort Lauderdale, FL - Businessman Patrick Murphy, who filed against Allen West in Florida's CD 22 three weeks before the end of the quarter, raised more money than any other Democratic challenger in the country, according to FEC reports filed today.

Murphy reported over $350,000 in his first 3 weeks - out-raising all other Democratic challengers in the country. In addition, the political newcomer starts the campaign with more cash on hand than incumbent Allen West. Murphy reported $304,261 in cash on hand to Rep. West's $242,613.

"There is tremendous enthusiasm surrounding this campaign. It's clear that voters and donors are rejecting the extremist policies of Allen West, Rick Scott, and the Tea Party in general. But even that won't be enough - it is going to take a fresh campaign like ours with the ability to raise millions of dollars to take Allen West out of office," stated Patrick Murphy.

Murphy's FEC filing showed he is gaining early support from some significant Democratic and community leaders including: State Senator Jeremy Ring who represents a portion of the 22nd district in Broward County; former State Rep. Kevin Rader; former Governor Charlie Crist; former Congressman Harold Ford, Sr.; respected attorneys Jim Ferrraro and Roy Black; prominent Democratic fundraisers Stuart Cauff, Cynthia Leesfield, Ron Ansen and David Adler; and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers' ElectroPAC, among others.

The Crist contribution is interesting. Crist said at Stetson University candidates should have a more civil tone. No one ever accused West of being civil. Crist gave $1,000 to Murphy's campaign.