It looks like state Rep. Don Barlow, D-Spokane, is going to get a run for his money this year -- emphasis on money.

Republican challengers Kevin Parker and Melvin Lindauer, according to new campaign finance reports, have raised $31,515 and $15,961 respectively. Barlow, who was subject to a fundraising freeze during the January to March legislative session, is reporting $24,372.

The District's other House incumbent, Rep. John Ahern, R-Spokane, is also looking at a significant challenger this year. Democrat John Driscoll has raised $13,034 in his race to make the 6th go from all-Republican to all-Democrat in just four years. Ahern's at $18,867.

Republican Sen. Brad Benson and Rep. John Serben were ousted by Democrats in 2006, after years of Republican domination of the western Spokane district.

The numbers for Barlow and Ahern may seem low now due to the session freeze, but it's generally easier for incumbents to raise cash.

Stay tuned. It's only April.

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