GOPers have edge in money

COLUMBUS

Like it or not, money is often the key to victory in political campaigns.

We like to envision an America where the little guy, sick of the cesspool of special interests that sometimes dominate officeholders’ attention, can step up, convince the electorate to throw the bums out and replace them with common, ordinary everyday people who still possess the brains they were born with.

Cue Mr. Smith collapsing in the Capitol.

I’m sure that happens once in a while, but not as often as it should. What we’re left with are elected officials who must spend some of their time focusing on the next election campaign. Election campaigns cost money — a lot of money.

The Ohio Statehouse is no different. Lawmakers regularly play host to fund-raisers to help in their efforts to remain in office or to unseat the opposition.

Judging by the campaign finance reports that were filed last week with the secretary of state, one side of the political aisle is swimming in an ocean of green while the other is floundering on the beach.

Consider:

The Ohio House Republican Organizational Committee reported a balance on hand of more than $4.1 million, thanks to $2.7 million-plus in contributions in the last half of 2011.

The Ohio House Democratic Caucus Fund, meanwhile, had a balance on hand of $410,657, with contributions received of $416,524.

The Ohio Republican Senate Campaign Committee had a balance on hand of more than $3.5 million, with contributions of about $1.5 million.

The Ohio Senate Democrats had $38,554 on hand as of the end of 2011, thanks to $34,555 in contributions.

No. that’s not a typo.

Republicans, as you would expect, are celebrating the results. House Speaker Bill Batchelder told reporters last week that he is hoping to gain more seats in the GOP-controlled chamber, after wresting control from Democrats in 2010.

“We were elected into the majority in 2010 to put Ohio back on the right track,” Batchelder said in a released statement after the new campaign finance totals were filed. “From day one, we have never shied away from making the tough decisions to bring about a more prosperous Ohio. As evidenced by today’s announcement, Ohioans and donors from across our great state and nation are contributing to Republicans because they know that we are finally turning the corner by bringing jobs to Ohio.”

Presidential election cycle

One has to believe that Statehouse Republicans have the edge going into a heated presidential election cycle. Coffers flush with contributions mean more time on television and radio and in newspapers and more campaign events.

That’s doesn’t guarantee victory at the ballot box, and a lack of money doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to sway voters to your arguments. Last year’s Issue 3, dealing with federal health care mandates, is proof of that.

Besides, wasn’t Mr. Smith appointed?

Marc Kovac is The Vindicator’s Statehouse correspondent. Email him at mkovac@dixcom.com or on Twitter at OhioCapitalBlog.