Mazzeo, Armato have cash edge in 2nd district

Democratic incumbents in the politically competitive 2nd legislative district have an early cash advantage over GOP challengers in the race for two state assembly seats.

Assemblyman Vince Mazzeo (D-Northfield) has raised $76,096, spent $42,411, and has $31,687 cash-on-hand.  Assemblyman John Armato (D-Buena Vista) reported raising $44,581 and spent $16,104; he has $27,487 in the bank.

Additionally, Mazzeo and Armato have $10,504 in a joint campaign account.

The Republican candidates are struggling to raise money in a district that is represented by a Republican senator.

Atlantic County Freeholder John Risley has raised $4,443.  He reported spending $659 and has $3,683 in his warchest.  Risley also has $1,803 in his freeholder account.

Brigantine Mayor Phil Guenther has raised $5,923, spent $659, and has cash-on-hand of $5,923.

The 2nd district has 15,128 more Democrats than Republicans, but the GOP has managed to win at least one legislative race in each of the last 22 general elections since 1975.