The deadline for filing campaign finance reports that cover the period through Dec. 31 hasn't yet arrived, but two candidates already are releasing numbers. Keith Allred, Democratic candidate for governor, announced today that in the three weeks since he filed his declaration of candidacy on Dec. 10, 2009, through the close of the period Dec. 31, he raised $130,807. "I am honored and humbled by the support my campaign has received from across the political spectrum in Idaho," Allred said in a statement. "In spite of, or maybe because of, the tough economic times, people are so excited about a new way of governing that they are eager to contribute."

Vaughn Ward, a Republican candidate for the 1st District congressional seat, announced today that he raised "over $100,000" during the fourth quarter of 2009, with contributors during the quarter including First Lady Lori Otter and Lt. Gov. Brad Little. “I am very grateful that so many Idahoans have supported our campaign,” Ward said in a statement. “Idahoans from across the district are standing behind my leadership, experience, and vision to put our country back on track.”

Ward is vying against Rep. Raul Labrador, R-Eagle, in the Republican primary for a chance to take on 1st Congressional District Democratic Rep. Walt Minnick. Allred is one of an array of candidates seeking to challenge Republican Gov. Butch Otter; others include Republicans Rex Rammell, Sharon Ullman and Ron "Pete" Peterson; Democrat Lee R. Chaney Sr.; and independents Jana Kemp and "Pro-Life," who was known as Marvin Richardson before he changed his name to the slogan. Otter hasn't yet formally announced his candidacy, but has a campaign staff and has indicated he'll seek re-election.