Now They're After Granny's Birthday Money

We all know that the Obama and Romney campaigns have raised a massive amount of money so far during this election cycle.  According to the Federal Election Commission website, here's a look at how much money PACs have raised this cycle by organization and type:

Here's how much both the national Republicans and the Democrats have raised, spent and have on hand for this election cycle:

The Democrats have raised just under $356 million and spent $278 million.  The Republicans have raised nearly $321 million and spent $206 million.

As if hundreds of millions of dollars wasn't enough, the creative political minds in Washington, D.C. have come up with another scheme to help themselves to the contents of your wallet and/or purse.

Let's look at the incumbent first.  The Obama campaign is after the cash that you might haul in on those special life occasions like birthdays.  Here is a screen grab from the barakobama.com website:

If you are getting married, having a birthday, anniversary, wedding, bar or bat mitzvah or any other special occasion, you can register with Obama 2012 and ask for a donation rather than getting a gift. What a bonus!

Here's a quote:

"Instead of another gift card you’ll forget to use, ask your friends and family for something that will go a little further: a donation to Obama for America. Register your next celebration—whether it’s a birthday, bar or bat mitzvah, wedding, or anniversary—with the Obama campaign. It’s a great way to show your support for a cause that’s important to you on your big day."

In the interest of balance, here's a screen capture from the Romney campaign official website:

I hope that you noticed two things:

1.) The use of the word "ride" as in "upgrade your ride".  I'm certain that particular use of the word "ride" has never passed through Mr. Romney's lips.  In his case, I'm certain that the word "ride" is most closely affiliated with the words "chauffeur" or "limousine".  That said, it is always nice to see that a guy has a real grasp of society's colloquial use of the English language.  

2.) Notice that shipping on all items is free for a limited time only.  Better get it now while you don't have to pay for shipping!  After all, $321 million just doesn't go as far as it used to.

Yup, that's what both sides of the political equation are stooping to now.  Taking Granny's birthday money and charging you for shipping their bumper stickers.  On the other hand, I guess they suspect that we'd just waste our money on something that would be far less satisfying over the long term.