Million-plus funds campaigns

The Clarion-Ledger, 10/29/8

With Election Day less than a week away, candidates in one hotly contested state Supreme Court race have topped the $1 million mark, based on the latest campaign finance reports.

Incumbent Chief Justice Jim Smith and challenger Jim Kitchens combined have raised $1.2 million.

In another court contest, the candidates have raised more than half a million dollars for a seat that pays under $120,000 a year.

Incumbent state Supreme Court Justice Oliver Diaz Jr. continues to trail his opponent in overall campaign contributions, though he has raised slightly more money this month and had more cash on hand as of Tuesday.