I thought folks might find it interesting how much money some local races cost. The information below comes from the financial statements all candidates are required to file with the election commission. All reports are public information. These reports comer January 1, 2010 thru the end of April.
 

The race for County Mayor:

Matt Brookshire reported contributions of $4,140.00, expenditures of $3,990.00 with a balance on hand of $149.00.

Estelle Herron reported contributions of $6,412.00, expenditures of $5,256.00 with a balance on hand of $1,505.00.

Glen Hagerman reported contributions of $639.00, expenditures of $464.00.

Mark Matlock reported contributions of $3,675.00, expenditures of $12,621.00.

Van Shaver reported contributions of $2,906.00, expenditures of $3,154.00.

The race for General Sessions Judge:

Rex Dale reported contributions $18,258.00, expenditures of $16,884.00 with a balance on hand of $1,373.00.

Robert Hinton reported contributions of $21,850.00, expenditures of $20,597.00 with a balance on hand of $1,252.00.

Lee Ledbetter reported contributions of $9,664.00, expenditures of $8,956.00 with a balance on hand of $2,763.00.

Mary Longworth reported contributions of $5,046.00, expenditures of $2,587.00 with a balance on hand of $1,959.00.

Kimberlee Waterhouse reported contributions of $6,196.00, expenditures of $12,510.00 with a balance on hand of $901.00.

The Sheriff's race:

Both sheriff candidates reported contributions beginning July 2009.

Steve Cook reported contributions of $21,720.00, expenditures of $17,010.00 with a balance on hand of $4,708.00.

Tim Guider reported contributions of $39,205.00, expenditures of $33,099.00 with a balance on hand of $6,175.00.

As you can see, running for office can be an expensive endeavor. Shortly, I will try to bring you some more of the local race finances.