Democrats Out-Raise Republicans by Historic Margin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASESeptember 24, 2008Contact: Alexis Chininis(603)669-1050Democrats Out-Raise Republicans by Historic MarginManchester - Manchester Democrats chair Chris Pappas issued the following statement in response to a press release issued by City Republican chair Will Infantine:"I welcome the Manchester Republican committee's diligent research into the Democratic Party's superior fundraising prowess during the 2008 elections.  In 2006, voters sent an unambiguous message that they believe that New Hampshire's future is more secure in the hands of leaders like John Lynch, Carol Shea Porter, Paul Hodes, and a state legislature controlled by Democrats.  Republican griping about the party's ability to raise funds to wage successful campaigns is the very definition of sour grapes.  "The names and addresses of all of the party's contributors are matters of public record at the federal, state, and local level.  Manchester Republicans are able to review Democratic campaign contributions because the Democratic Party and its committees actually register and file reports with the Secretary of State as the law requires."Unfortunately, the Republicans are not disclosing all of their contributors and expenses.  As was stated in the Union Leader today, John E. Sununu refuses to file reports for his committee in New Hampshire.  The NH Advantage Coalition, which the Manchester Republicans admit is a Republican organization run by Manchester Republican treasurer Tammy Simmons, refuses to register and file reports with the Secretary of State.  "Even the Manchester City Republican Committee, the very group that is criticizing the Democratic Party, has only filed one report out of three due to the Secretary of State.  It was filed 16 days late on September 5 for the August 20 reporting deadline, according to the Secretary of State's website.  The Manchester Democrats have reported every penny raised and spent."The Democratic Party believes in transparency and accountability in government and has been following election law on campaign receipts and expenditures.  Why won't John E. Sununu, the New Hampshire Advantage Coalition, and the Manchester Republicans join us?  Who is supporting them?  What are they hiding?  Voters deserve an answer."