''DNC Raises Record Amount of Money from Low-Dollar Donations''

"Washington, DC - During the first quarter of the year (January 1 - March 31, 2005), the Democratic National Committee (DNC) raised an unprecedented amount of funds from low dollar donations. The DNC received $14.1 million in contributions; $12.1 million from small dollar donations. Since becoming chairman in mid-February, Gov. Howard Dean has focused on the grassroots, raising over $1 million a week - a record amount of money. This is double the amount of money raised during a similar period four years ago - after one of the most contested Presidential elections - and proves that Americans are anxious to change the direction of this country. "This is a strong start for the year, but it is just the beginning" said DNC Chairman Howard Dean. "I have traveled across the country - from Mississippi to California and have seen first hand the hunger and desire of the American people to get our country back on track and restore integrity." The average donation to the DNC during the first three months of the year was $50.80. There were approximately 20,000 new donors this quarter. The DNC has $7.2 million cash-on-hand."-from the DNC.