Beiler struggling to keep up with Wagner's fundraising

Democratic Auditor General Jack Wagner has nearly $400,000 more on hand than his Republican challenger, Chet Beiler, according to campaign finance documents filed with the Department of State last week.

The significant cash advantage boosts the incumbent Wagner, already the favorite, and raises doubts whether Beiler will raise enough money for a statewide election.

Wagner has $511,855 on hand after raising $338,111 from May 13 to Sept 15. He spent $198,116 the past four months.

But Beiler has just $121,912 on hand after raising $194,299 since May. The Republican, who spent $138,087 since May, also has $135,281 in unpaid debts.

Beiler did reportedy raise $100,000 last weekend during a fundraiser with former Gov. Tom Ridge.