Sodders has big cash lead on Jech

Incumbent Sen. Steve Sodders, D-State Center, has more than six times the cash on hand than his Republican challenger Jane Jech, of Marshalltown, after the recent campaign finance report filing period.

Sodders has $68,734 in cash on hand compared to $11,065 for Jech in the Iowa Senate District 36 race in advance of the Nov. 6 election.

"Some great reports," Sodders said. "It shows strength in my campaign. The important thing for me is getting out and meeting the people and not the campaign finances."

Article Photos

Steve Sodders

Jech complimented Sodders for raising that much money, and she said she had a primary which spent some of her campaign funds. Jech said they will keep with the same strategy of getting out and meeting people and being efficient with the campaign money.

Jech has been in this position before already this year, trailing primary opponent Larry McKibben by a significant margin in campaign finances and she ended up winning the June primary.

"We have a record of still winning even though we were greatly outspent," she said.

Incumbent Mark Smith, D-Marshalltown, also has a financial lead on his Republican challenger Allen Burt, of Marshalltown, for the Iowa House District 71 seat.

Smith has $29,485 in cash on hand compared to $18,255 for Burt. Smith said he uses the money to get the word out about his stance on issues, but also feels the personal touch is more important.

"I get out and knock on doors so I can share my message with the people," Smith said.

Burt is a newcomer into the world of politics up against an incumbent with 12 years experience in the House.

"I'm pleased with where we are at," Burt said. "We have work to do being a non-incumbent. We're working hard and are enjoying meeting the voters."