Dr. Ami Bera Raises over $380,000 in First Quarter of 2010 for Race Against Lungren

Grassroots campaign and small dollar donors put Bera at almost $1 million cash on hand

Dr. Ami Bera announced today that has finished the first quarter of 2010 with over $977,000 cash on hand, after raising $384,500 in the first quarter of 2010.

Bera’s strong start to 2010 fueled by low dollar donors and a strong grassroots operation, place him in the top tier of Democratic challengers nationwide. Bera's raised $1.25 million to date.

"I’m deeply humbled by the outpouring of support our campaign has received. It's clear that people are concerned about the things we’ve been talking about – creating good jobs, and improving our schools and making health insurance more affordable," Bera said. “With the hundreds of people that have already signed up to help our campaign, I’m certain we will have the strength and energy this region needs to bring that voice to Congress.”

After out raising his opponent three quarters in a row, Bera has started off 2010 strong, amassing resources from low dollar donors and a strong grassroots operation. Over 720 individuals have contributed to his campaign this quarter – almost 500 of those supporters gave less than $200. More than 80% of Bera’s contributors are California residents and more than 62% are from the greater Sacramento region.

Bera, the former Associate Dean of Admissions at UC Davis Medical School, has attracted national attention for his strong grassroots campaign and proven leadership ability. His focus has been traveling throughout the third district listening with residents in their homes and businesses. Many of his donations were received at house parties hosted by local residents and campaign volunteers.

Bera, 45, is a lifelong Californian whose parents emigrated to the U.S. from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, CA for over 15 years and have a 12-year old daughter, Sydra.