HD 46: The Money Race

The latest campaign finance reports are up and it looks like incumbent State Rep. Dawnna Dukes, D-Austin holds a significant fundraising lead over her opponent, Brian Thompson. She raised $ 73,972.18 between July and December to Thompson's $11,272.98.

But Thompson is quick to point out that Dukes' money comes from a who's who of Republican Speaker Tom Craddick's supporters.

Hillco PAC - $10,000
You may recall the Texans for Public Justice report on HillCo-as-a-conduit-for-Bob-Perry money.

Bob Perry - $1000
The Houston-based homebuilder is the largest political donor in the nation, who gives the bulk of his contributions to Republican candidates. In 2004 he gained notoriety for helping pay for the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth ads against Democratic presidential candidate John Kerry.

Bill Miller -$1,000
Miller is Hillco Partner and a longtime Craddick friend and consultant. Sometimes he's his spokesperson.

John Nau - $1,500
Has given hundreds of thousands to Republican politicians and causes.

See the video story here.
I tried to reach State Rep. Dukes for the story but her consultant, Colin Strother, said she was too tied up with preparations for an upcoming MLK event. That's fair, so we included a statement in the story. Strother, however, sent another statement from Dukes after graphics began working on the first statement:

"I have never allowed a contribution to influence any vote. My district always comes first."

Strother himself added:
"Dawnna is uncommitted in the speaker's race. She has not signed a pledge card for any candidate. Any assumptions or assertions by Brian to the contrary are complete lies."

Your thoughts? I'm particularly interested in hearing from voters who live in the district. More money stats after the jump.