Tories are fundraising pros, figures show

[CHIMO]

OTTAWA—Federal Conservatives have raised more money since 2004 than their three federal political rivals combined — a fundraising feat that promises to give Stephen Harper a vital edge once he scraps public subsidies of political parties.

Monday’s budget will set the clock ticking on a phase-out of the $2-per-vote subsidy of federal political parties by 2015.

While Harper stands on principle in making the move, a Star analysis of party contributions reveals he can comfortably turn off the funding tap, confident that his own supporters will keep party coffers filled.

For the last seven years, the Conservatives have far outpaced the other parties when it comes to keeping the war chest stocked, raising more money from more supporters than their political challengers.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1001129--tories-are-fundraising-pros-figures-show?bn=1