Tennessee state representative Jim CobbNASHVILLE – Incumbent state lawmakers in Southeast Tennessee hold a big money advantage over challengers in both primary and November general election contests, state filings show.
As of June 30, six House Republicans in and around Hamilton County had about a 3-to-1 money advantage over challengers in the second quarter, and a huge 20-to-1 leg up over primary or general election opponents, according to candidates’ reports to the state Registry of Election Finance.
The fundraising percentages would have been even more lopsided except for a lively Republican primary in the 31st Legislative District where Ron Travis, a Dayton businessman, raised $28,398 in his challenge to Rep. Jim Cobb, R-Spring City.
Cobb reported raising $2,625 in the second quarter, but because of previous fundraising he had far more cash on hand than Travis. Cobb reported spending $30,709 but still had $34,232 on hand as of June 30.
Travis reported spending $25,712.85 and had a balance of $5,451 at the end of the reporting period. He said he feels “very good” about what he’s accomplished.