Incumbents have cash advantage in Richmond-area House races

The latest campaign-finance reports show the power of incumbency.

In local contests for the House of Delegates, incumbents carry large cash advantages over their challengers.

Del. John M. O'Bannon III, R-Henrico, reported having $175,248 in the bank as of June 30 -- a hefty lead over his Democratic challenger in the 73rd District, Tom Shields, who reported $46,615.

In the most recent reporting period, May 28 to June 30, Shields brought in $33,560 to O'Bannon's $46,897.

Shields' campaign manager, Tony Coppola, said the groundwork that they have been laying is literally starting to pay off.

"The race is just really starting to catch a lot of traction, both among area donors and donors around the state," Coppola said.

Without having to spring for TV advertising, candidates in local House races usually spend on direct mail, campaign literature, staff and events. Incumbents often husband cash to help other candidates.

In the 56th District, Democrat James Towey has $5,113 in the bank for his attempt to unseat Del. William R. Janis, R-Henrico, who posted a cash balance of $57,982 as of June 30.

Janis gave $1,056 to Ernesto Sampson, a Republican running to succeed former Del. Franklin P. Hall, in the 69th District.

Sampson, with $3,571 on hand as of June 30, raised money while three Democrats duked it out for the nomination in that heavily Democratic district.

Betsy Carr prevailed, and had $1,231 on hand June 30.

Del. Joseph D. Morrissey, D-Henrico, posted a cash balance of $22,292 as of June 30, compared with his Republican opponent in the 74th, Michael Gage, who had $1,221.

In Hanover County's heavily Republican 55th District, GOP nominee John A. Cox had $9,002 to Democrat Robert N. Barnette's $994.

Contact Olympia Meola at (804) 649-6812 or .