LYNN —Drew Russo has a giant financial lead in the race for a seat in the state House of Representatives, according to the Massachusetts Office of Campaign and Political Finance.
The Lynn Museum/Lynn Arts Executive Director has a more than $10,000 financial edge over his nearest competitor, Ward 6 City Councilor Peter Capano, who has about $2,700, most from his previous uncontested race for councilor last year.
The seat is expected to become available next fall if state Rep. Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn) wins his bid for the senate office vacated by Mayor Thomas M. McGee. Crighton is running unopposed.
In addition to Russo and Capano, City Councilor-at-Large Hong Net has also declared his intention to run for the House spot.
Russo, who served as outreach director to former U.S. Rep. John F. Tierney (D-Mass) before joining the museum, raised $13,475 in December, and spent $253, leaving the campaign with $13,222.
Fifty-four of Russo’s 65 contributors were from out of town, including three members of the Tierney family, who contributed a total of $1,350.
“I am humbled that friends, colleagues, people I’ve worked with throughout my personal and professional life would show support in this way,” Russo said. “It’s a good first step in having the resources I’ll need to wage a vigorous campaign.”
Since November, Capano has raised $850 and spent $280. He still has $2,637 in the account, mostly from his previous council race.
Capano said he is not worried about the financial gap between him and Russo.
“We plan on running a full-fledged race and we have planned a fundraiser at James Carrigan’s law offices next Thursday, (Feb. 1),” he said. “That’s the first of a few coming up.”
City Councilor-at-Large Hong Net has raised $50 since his announcement in November. He still has $571 left from his council race last fall.
Net could not immediately be reached for comment.
