The end of the fundraising quarter is drawing near and with it a big increase in fundraising events. Already we have 538 events logged into our database for the month of March, in contrast to 365 for February and 112 for January. This follows a similar pattern to what we saw last year, when we posted 529 events in March, 191 for February, and 233 in January.

We are seeing pleas from fundraisers come over our transom saying things like, “Is there any way you can help out Congressman x before the end of the quarter?” and “As you know, Congressman Y has gotten off to a late start…she could use any help you could give her before the 31st.” (Language changed slightly to protect our sources.)

For candidates in competitive races, picking up fundraising at the end of the quarter is a way to boost numbers reported to the U.S. Federal Election Commission (FEC) and thereby intimidate opponents. For those in safe seats, it’s also a way of brandishing power.

Consider the invite below for Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa). “Come celebrate the end of the quarter with Sen. Chuck Grassley,” it says. While Grassley has said he won’t start campaigning formally until August, he’s been actively fundraising for since his last election. He’s already got $5 million cash on hand compared to $503,000 for  his Democratic opponent, Roslyn Conlin. While Grassley’s favorability ratings have slipped a bit lately, the race is still considered to be a solid win for Republicans.

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