How Much do Interest Groups Actually Contribute?

    When looking at the American political system, the intricacies and expenses of elections sometimes go unnoticed.  When an American citizen decides to run for a political position, one of the primary concerns regarding their upcoming campaigns is how much money they will actually need to win.  New York's two senators for instance, raised $12,899,624 (Sen. Gillibrand) and $19,065,923 (Sen. Schumer) respectively.  Those who chose to run against them raised significantly less (The largest sum of one of the losers was only $2,112,884).  When looking at New York's district members of congress, the congressman that raised the highest was Carolyn Maloney at $2,932,000.
    Although these numbers seem staggering, political candidates rarely pay a large percentage of these numbers themselves.  They get help from campaign workers who work around the clock to raise money from the candidate's constituents.  Besides the money that comes from donations, money that comes from elsewhere, usually flows in from special Interest groups.  Senator Gillibrand attributes 20% of her money raised to special interest groups while Senator Schumer accumulated 15%.  While these numbers may be low, they may also in fact be skewed.  Members of interest groups are usually familiar with candidates in their district who support their cause.  In knowing these candidates, often times members of certain interest groups donate money to the candidate personally to show support on a personal level.
    I feel that interest groups are both necessary and effective in demonstrating support for congressional/senatorial/presidential candidates because it helps these candidates raise money without going "door to door".  While these candidates can enjoy easy access to campaign contributions, members of these interest groups who have to pay fees or donate, can rest assured knowing that their money is being put to good use.

http://www.opensecrets.org/races/election.php?state=NY