There are a rumored five South Asian candidates running for Congress in 2010. One of the top draws, though in an extremely tough district, is Kansas State Representative Raj Goyle who is running to replace Republican Todd Tiahrt. Given the obvious obstacles of an extremely conservative district, one that gave John McCain 58% of the vote, it's great to see Raj post such strong numbers. $400,00 should go a long way in the district.

RAJ GOYLE FOR CONGRESS RAISES $403,083.68
 
Just Three Months Into Race, 
State Rep. Goyle Sets Fundraising Record

Wichita, KS - State Representative Raj Goyle today announced he raised a record-breaking total of $403,083.68 during his first three months as a candidate for Congress in Kansas's 4th Congressional District.

After entering the race for Congress in July of this year, Goyle posted the strongest first fundraising quarter of all candidates in the race to date.  Goyle's July-through-September total of $403,083.68 represents the most money ever raised in the first quarter by a challenger in the history of the district.

"I'm proud to have the support of so many people who are looking to bring some Kansas common sense to Congress during these challenging times," Goyle said.  "I'm humbled and honored to have the support of business owners, farmers, teachers, medical professionals, and other hard working Kansans as we begin this campaign," said Goyle.

Goyle received contributions from over 800 individual donors. Half of the contributions to Goyle's campaign were $100 or less.

Goyle also drew on a broad base of support, receiving contributions from Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.  "Raj Goyle's support from people representing all party affiliations reflects his record as an advocate for common sense solutions," said former Kansas Lieutenant Governor John Moore.  "We need Raj in Congress, fighting for us."

Goyle was elected to the Kansas State House of Representatives in 2006, defeating a three-term incumbent.  Goyle won re-election in 2008 with 67% of the vote.  In the State House, Goyle has worked to bring Republicans and Democrats together across the partisan divide.  He wrote the law cracking down on Fred Phelps' picketing of the funerals of our war heroes and led the effort to save jobs and help thousands of laid-off workers in Wichita by expanding access to unemployment benefits and job retraining.