McMahon files commanding $218,373 in six weeks

via campaign email;

August 29, 2008 – Michael McMahon announced today that he raised a remarkable $218,373 in just the last six weeks of his campaign for New York's 13th Congressional District. The latest filing brings McMahon’s total fundraising to $716,547, and leaves him with $413,062 on hand. The $218,373 total was raised from 314 different individual donors.

By comparison, McMahon’s primary opponent Steve Harrison raised only $16,659.80 in the pre-primary period, and Republican candidates Robert Straniere and Jim Wyne raised only $14,968.50 and $8,885 respectively.

“This unprecedented outpouring of support proves that Mike McMahon has the record of accomplishment and plan for change that Staten Islanders and South Brooklynites are looking for in their next representative. With the continued support of the district, Mike will bring the fight for increased transportation funding, improved health care, a stronger economy, support for our troops and better schools all the way to Washington,” said McMahon spokesperson Erin Monju.

The impressive fundraising total is another sign of the of the McMahon campaign’s momentum. In the past month, McMahon has picked up key labor endorsements from the New York State AFL–CIO, the United Federation of Teachers, 1199 SEIU Healthcare East, UFCW, RWDSU, UNITE HERE, CWA, CSA, CSEA, the Hotel and Motel Trades Council, the New York League of Conservation Voters, the Public Employees Federation and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association. McMahon has also received endorsements from elected leaders including Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, Senator Charles Schumer, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, former Mayor Ed Koch, and members of the New York City Congressional Delegation.

Last week, the New York Times endorsed McMahon in the Democratic Primary, citing his “record of accomplishment,” “broad appeal” and “impressive job representing Staten Island on the City Council,” saying he’d be a “valuable advocate” in Washington.

Last month McMahon earned a spot on the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee's vaunted "Red to Blue" program, signaling that the campaign is a top national priority for the Democratic Party. He was the only candidate from downstate New York included in the program. The "Red to Blue" program was a proven success in the 2006 cycle, raising nearly $22.6 million for 56 campaigns. It highlights top Democratic campaigns across the country and offers them financial, communications and strategic support.

The Democratic Primary will be on September 9th, and the General Election will be held on November 4th.