WASHINGTON — Starting the month with nearly $134 million in the bank, Barack Obama enters the final stretch of the presidential election with a robust ad presence in 18 states and the flexibility to expand if needed. Republican John McCain began October with $47 million in hand.
Obama has emerged as the most prodigious fundraiser ever in presidential politics. He spent $65 million on commercials in September, McCain $22.5 million. Obama reported raising a record $151 million in September. McCain is accepting public financing and cannot raise money. He is limited to $84 million for the two months before Nov. 4.
Both candidates also are getting help from their respective parties. The Democratic National Committee had $27.4 million available at the end of the month, the RNC $77 million.
