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Hernando Today

Candidates Cough Up Campaign Cash

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By MICHAEL D. BATES

Hernando Today

Published: September 24, 2008

BROOKSVILLE - In less than six weeks from today, local voters will go to the polls and elect the people they believe will best lead Hernando County.

And the candidates whose names will be on that ballot are ramping up their campaigns between now and then trying to assure voters they are the right choice.

That costs money.

And some candidates have already spent plenty to get their name out there. After all, those campaign signs that proliferate on busy road intersections don't grow on trees.

The most recent campaign reporting period ended Friday, Sept. 19. Here's a look at what the candidates have raised and spent to date:

County Commission District 1

When it comes to money-gathering, incumbent Republican Jeff Stabins has raised about 43 times as much as his Democratic opponent Ramon Gutierrez.

Stabins has amassed $21,399 in his war chest, compared to $500 for Gutierrez. Stabins has spent $17,702 to Gutierrez' $42.

Gutierrez told Hernando Today last week he intends to erect his signs and become more visible in the community. He also picked up an endorsement from the Hernando County Taxpayers Alliance, a grass-roots tax reform group.

County Commission District 3

Lots of money flowing in this race.

Republican John Druzbick has $30,585 in his coffers and spent nearly as much: $29,225. Druzbick, a former school board member, won the August primary handily from his two Republican challengers.

Meanwhile, Democrat incumbent Diane Rowden has raised $23,941 and spent $21,728. Rowden has so far lived up to her vow not to accept money from possible companies or individuals who may have business before the board.

County Commission District 5
Incumbent Democrat Chris Kingsley has $31,285 to date, compared to Republican challenger James Adkins' $21,862.

Both have spent almost identical amounts: $14,199 for Kingsley and $14,170 for Adkins.

Supervisor of Elections

Current Supervisor and Democrat Annie Williams has $1,210 in her coffers and spent $915.

Republican challenger Shirley Anderson has $29,772 and spent $8,204.

Gus Guadagnino, who declared no political party affiliation, raised $19,085 and spent $16,476.

Hernando County Sheriff

Sheriff Richard Nugent, a Republican, is far away the money leader in this race with $33,300. He's spent $10,871.

His Democratic opponent, Luke Frazier, had not filed a report at deadline and would have to pay a fine if he had any contributions or expenditures during the most recent period.

If he didn't receive or spend any money and submits a waiver, he won't have to pay a fine.

Last reporting period, Frazier had received $3,550 and spent $3,400.

School Board District 4

James Yant has raised $15,385 and spent $14,844. His challenger, Gene Magrini, has $16,800 and spent $14,226.

Both are vying for the seat to be vacated by Jim Malcolm, who is retiring.

Reporter Michael D. Bates can be reached at 352-544-5290 or mbates@hernandotoday.com.

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