Dunbar outpaces Taylor in campaign contributions

East Anchorage Assemblyman Forrest Dunbar has out-fundraised his right-wing radical Save Anchorage-backed challenger Stephanie Flynn Taylor, whose radio interviews with Louisiana-based Dan Fagan we'll be talking about in the near future.

Dunbar's campaign reported receiving over $167,000 in campaign income has $24,672.86 in expenses, debt totaling $11,637.00 and has over $132,000 cash on hand.

In contrast, Taylor's campaign reported income totaling $109,913.18 and $43,413.27 in expenses with $66,499.91 closing cash on hand. Perhaps curiously, Taylor’s campaign did not report any outstanding debt.

When reached for comment about his reaction to his solid fundraising numbers, Dunbar responded with a statement:

"I'm deeply honored to be supported by so many of my fellow Anchorage residents. In speaking with my East Anchorage neighbors, it's clear that they are looking for someone to represent them who will fight for the district, and continue to focus on public safety, fiscal responsibility, and quality of life. I have done that work as an Assembly Member, and I hope to continue to do so, after earning their votes this April."

Dunbar has remained steadfast on all the issues important to his constituents, but is especially focused on the issue of homelessness. He believes that affordable housing is key to the healthy growth of our neighborhoods and economy.

"Housing has proven to be the most effective connection to make so that people can be successful in their jobs or mental health treatment. We must connect those experiencing homelessness with the resources they need. Investments in rapid re-housing or permanent supportive housing are cheaper than allowing people to try to live in green spaces or emergency shelters, stressing our emergency medical systems," Dunbar states on his campaign website.

Save Anchorage member Stephanie Flynn Taylor, on the other hand, believes in stealth updating her campaign website, hoping nobody would notice she accused everyone who serves the homeless community of "coddling" the homeless and suggesting that the way to reduce crime and drug use in the city was to hold the homeless "accountable." (Mayor Bronson must be so proud).

While Dunbar's strong fundraising numbers are a good indicator of where he stands in April's election, remember that in last year’s mayoral race, Dunbar won his own district by only 5.33% and with Taylor reporting over $100,000 in contributions, Progressives are going to have to show up and turn out the vote to keep her off the Assembly. Take nothing for granted.

You can learn more about Dunbar’s campaign here.