Cravaack’s challenging environment

Freshman Republican Rep. Chip Cravaak's re-election efforts are off to a slow start.

Politico called his recent fundraising numbers a "less-than-impressive" $121,000.

Lucky for Cravaack media buys in the 8th congressional district, which is largely made up by Duluth and the Iron Range, can be made for far less than in other competitive districts. But his opponents get the same prices.

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MPR's Brett Neely spoke with TV ad buyer Lisa Nordstrom of Compass Point Media, a subsidiary of the Campbell Mithun advertising agency about a recent anti-Cravaack ad buy of $8,500. In the 8th District, $8,500 "will definitely saturate the television market," she said.

Nobody has officially announced to challenge Cracaack, but Politics1 offers this broad lineup of possible challengers.

Jeff Anderson (DFL) - Duluth City Councilor, Radio Station Sales Manager & National Guard Veteran

Tarryl Clark (DFL) - State Sen., Attorney & '10 Nominee in CD-6

Daniel Fanning (DFL) - Congressional Aide, Democratic Activist & Iraq War Veteran

Tim Faust (DFL) - Ex-State Rep., Financial Consultant & Pastor

Rick Nolan (DFL) - Ex-Congressman, Ex-State Rep., Businessman & Ex-Teacher

John Persell (DFL) - State Rep., Ex-Frohn Township Supervisor, Water Quality Specialist & USAF Veteran

Yvonne Prettner-Solon (DFL) - Lt. Governor, Ex-State Sen., Ex-Duluth City Councilor & Clinical Psychologist

Ryan Winkler (DFL) - State Rep. & Attorney

Ely native and current Duluth City Council member Jeff Anderson told the Ely Echo he's seriously considering a run.

Daniel Fanning is talking like a candidate as well:

"There's no way I can sit by and let republicans try to balance the budget on the backs of the middle class and working poor, while continuing to give tax breaks to the wealthy, fund unnecessary wars and give subsidies to oil companies that are reporting near record profits" (FOX 21).

Which of the above candidates would you like to see Cravaack face in November? Why? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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