Congressional candidates expected to spend at least $3.7 billion for midterm elections

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Despite a still struggling economy, congressional candidates are expected to spend at least $3.7 billion, a record for midterm elections.

Big fights always happen in midterm elections as the out-of-power party -- Republicans this year -- struggles to make gains. But this year, the fights may be especially intense, political observers say.

"A great deal is at stake," said Cal Jillson, a political science professor at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. "It's not only the economic difficulties we're facing but healthcare as well as cap and trade and financial regulation, all of which are of fundamental concern to the wealthy interests in the country.

"They are willing to dig deep in their pockets to fund candidates who will stand with them in these fights."
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http://www.star-telegram.com/2010/03/13/2038109/congressional-candidates-expected.html