Former GOP Republican U.S. House contenders report finances

Former Republican contenders in North Dakota’s U.S. House race showed a spectrum of fundraising strength in the first three months of 2012.

The latest disclosure reports to the Federal Election Commission include finances up to March 31, the day before state Republicans endorsed Brian Kalk as their official candidate in the U.S. House race.

Kalk beat out four competitors at the state convention, including second-place finisher Shane Goettle, who raised $30,200 in the early months of 2012.

Goettle collected $148,900 in net donations for his unsuccessful House bid this year, and he reported $50,815 in cash on hand as of April 1.

Former candidate Kim Koppelman ended his campaign in the red, reporting $18,800 in debts owed as of April 1.

Koppelman raised $13,200 toward his House run, and after expenses, had $8,200 in cash on hand as of April 1.

A financial report was not yet available Monday for Bette Grande, who also unsuccessfully sought the party’s endorsement in the race.

FEC regulations allow the former candidates to disburse their remaining funds in a variety of ways, including through donations to political parties or individual candidates.

Tags: nd government, updates, news, election, government