West’s Fundraising Total Nears $10 Million

Feisty freshman Rep. Allen West, R-Fla., is proving to be incredibly adept as a fundraiser.

His campaign says he garnered $2.2 million in the second quarter, putting his total for this election cycle at more than $9.9 million, according to Politico.

That’s a huge sum for a House member, putting him on par with national figures like Reps. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota and Ron Paul of Texas. And indeed West already has become a national sensation himself, with his remarks on various issues drawing notoriety in publications ranging from Newsmax to The New York Times.

West’s second-quarter haul outdid that of most Senate candidates, including Bill Nelson, the vulnerable Democratic incumbent in West’s home state, an amazing accomplishment for a freshman.

West has been skillful in gaining a network of supporters through the Internet and direct mail.