[StBernard] Vitter, Melancon Raise Big Money In Senate Race

[Westley Annis]

Vitter, Melancon Raise Big Money In Senate Race 
Candidates Likely To Spend Millions In November Contest 

When it comes to money in the bank, U.S. Rep. Chalie Melancon is in good
shape. 

The man he is challenging, however, is doing even better. 

Melancon and incumbent U.S. Sen. David Vitter have released their latest
campaign finance reports, and they foretell a showdown that will likely
feature expansive ad buys on both sides. 

In a statement Monday, Melancon's campaign called the most recent period its
"strongest fundraising month" since the launch of his candidacy. 

The Napoleonville Democrat reports raising $230,000 from July 1 through Aug.
8 and claims to have $2.2 million on hand. 

"Our campaign's quickening fundraising pace and $2.2 million cash on hand
puts us in a strong position to educate voters about Charlie's small
business background and his bipartisan approach to solving problems that
puts Louisiana first, said campaign manager Bradley Beychok. 

Vitter, a Republican from Metairie, went one better. His campaign raised
$507,000 in the most recent period and reports $5.4 million in the bank. 

Both men face challenges for their party's nomination. Melancon is a
prohibitive favorite against largely unknown competition. Vitter has been
challenged by former Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Chet Traylor, though a
poll released last week showed Traylor trailing badly in that contest. 

Within the past week, both Vitter and Melancon launched their first
television ads targeting each other. Vitter's spot paints his opponent as an
ally of President Barack Obama, who is widely unpopular in Louisiana.
Melancon attacks Vitter's self-described "serious sin." 

The general election is Nov. 2.