Kimberly Olson out raises Sid Miller in agriculture commissioner race

Democratic challenger Kimberly Olson has raised five times as much Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, according to the latest campaign filings with the Texas Ethics Commission.
Olson raised $130,557.06 and spent $82,963.53, according to her filing. Miller by contrast raised $24,570 and spent $115,008.45. Olson has $161,854.84 in cash on hand while Miller has $52,606.36.
Olson’s biggest contribution is $8,000 from the Texas Democratic Women PAC, followed by $2,000 from the Tarrant County Democratic Women’s Club and $1,770 from the Parker County Democratic Party General Funds. She’s also received donations ranging $25 to $1,000 from individuals. Stripe, a company based out of San Francisco, donated $3,704.60 to Olson’s campaign.
Miller’s biggest contributions were $5,000 from Harold Estes, $5,000 from Brazil Moore and $5,000 from Kathaleen Wall. The biggest special interest groups to donate to Miller is $2,000 from the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group PAC, followed by $1,000 from the Texas Poultry PAC.
Olson spent more than $40,000 in advertising on Facebook, Google, billboards and mailing, her biggest expense. Her next biggest expense was more than $38,000 for salaries and wages.
Miller spent $4,950 in advertising and $8,100 in salaries and wages. He also spent approximately $2,000 for fundraising expenses.
Reform Austin will continue to track political contributions throughout the election season, and follow up on how special interest money influences bills and votes.