- In 2020, Biden out-fundraised - In 2016 Clinton significantly
Trump and won. out-fundraised Trump and lost.
- In the 2020 Senate race for Arizona, - In the 2020 South Carolina Senate
Republican incumbent Martha race, Republican incumbent Lindsey
McSally was outspent by $30 million Graham was outspent to the tune of
by Democrat challenger Mark Kelly over $40 million by Democrat
and lost. challenger Jaime Harrison but was
- Neglecting the importance of still safely re-elected,
effective fundraising is a risk that - Arguably, the ability to raise large
few candidates are prepared to take, sums of money just indicates a
not least incumbents facing a strong strong challenger candidate, a
challenge. powerful and popular incumbent, or
- Superior funding enables candidates an existing legislator facing a tough
to air more TV ads and to employ race. Money therefore follows strong
more fieldworkers and campaign and viable candidates, rather than
staff, both of which are important in creating them in the first place.
maximising their vote. Effective - A larger war chest is only one factor
campaigning usually requires in determining the final result.
considerable outlay in terms of both
advertising and personnel.