Internet Donors Show Their Preference

Back in 2004 an organization called Act Blue was created. It's purpose was to be a place on the internet to allow people to donate money to progressive Democratic candidates. By 2008 it had become a vital source of funds for Democrats, and many progressive blogs (including my own) provided a button for Act Blue donations. It continues to be an excellent place for people to provide funds via the internet, and as a non-ptofit they have become the largest source of funds for Democrats (having raised $205,278,142).

Well, the right-wingers took a look at the success of Act Blue, and they decided they could do the same thing for the Republicans. They called their organization Act Right. Understand that these places are not where the rich, the corporations, or special interest groups give money -- those prefer PACs and super-PACs where they can give unlimited amounts and do it secretly. So, how are these two organizations doing in this election season? Have the right-wingers caught up to and passed the Act Blue donors (since they have the only real contest going right now)?

The FEC has released the fundraising figures for both organizations. Here is how they are doing:

ACT RIGHT
Cash on hand 1/1/11...............$5,270.12
Contributions this period...............$14,943.00
Contributions this year...............$67,140.00
Cash on hand now...............$1,601.78

ACT BLUE
Cash on hand 1/1/11...............$4,009,630.02
Contributions this period...............$3,748,082.11
Contributions this year...............$17,595,722.70
Cash on hand now...............$2,991,847.28

Oh my! It looks like the denizens of the internet are speaking -- loud and clear (and BLUE)!