Conway Web-based fundraiser raises more than $300K as Paul makes new plea for campaign cash

Conway Web fundraiser tops $300k, Paul seeks cash

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Democrat Jack Conway reported more than $300,000 in contributions Wednesday from his first Web-based fundraiser and Republican Rand Paul sought more cash as the rivals for the U.S. Senate readied fall TV ad blitzes.

Paul said in an e-mail and social media appeal to supporters he needs to raise more than $350,000 in the next two weeks to ensure maximum exposure in his first televised push of the fall campaign.

“I hate to ask, but I urgently need your help,” Paul said.

The Republican’s appeal came as Conway’s campaign disclosed Wednesday that it had raised about $310,000 with Tuesday’s Internet fundraiser.

Conway’s original goal was $260,000, later upped to $300,000. His spokesman John Collins said a solid response from thousands of contributors from around Kentucky and beyond reflected the campaign’s strong grass roots following.

Paul, a tea party favorite who portrays himself as a political outsider, largely financed his primary race with Internet donations and online fundraisers.

Both campaigns have aggressively courted contributors to replenish warchests after tough primary campaigns.

Paul, a Bowling Green eye doctor, reported $360,635 in campaign cash in the bank at the end of June. Conway had $703,012 on hand, but his campaign reported debts that included $250,000 amounting to loans Conway made to his campaign.

The search for fresh donations comes as Kentucky is expecting an avalanche of advertising from both sides through to Election Day.

Paul’s first TV ad of the fall campaign plays up his medical career and condemns health care reform championed by President Barack Obama.

“I really want to make sure everyone in Kentucky can see this ad,” Paul said in his latest appeal for campaign donations.

Conway, Kentucky’s attorney general, released his first ad in late August touting his efforts to crack down on online child pornography, elderly abuse and the illegal prescription drug trade.

The two are competing for the Kentucky seat held by Republican Sen. Jim Bunning, who is retiring after two terms.