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By MARY K. BLEWITT
Arundel Newspapers State Writer
Millions of dollars were poured into the 1989 statewide races, the majority from a handful of wealthy contributors, causing Virginia voters to question how far their influence goes beyond the voting booth.
The Nov. 7 general election ushered in a new Virginia governor, lieutenant governor, and attorney general for 1990. And While more than one Virginian can be heard saying, “I’m just glad its over,” political science students will be analyzing the election for years to come. What the 1989 election said about abortion, race, and campaign strategies is expected to be a lingering topic amidst political circles.
Among the subjects emerging as an issue to face future Virginia elections is the record breaking campaign contributions.
“It’s gotten out of hand,” said state Sen. Charles L. Waddell, D33rd Dist. “Virginia must do something.”
The total cost of this year’s gubernatorial race exceeded $25 million. The amount is more than double that of any previous statewide race.
Republican gubernatorial candidate J. Marshall Coleman raised nearly $10.4 million as of Oct. 31. A total of $3.7 million fueled his campaign during the first Virginia GOP Primary into which his opponents together poured $7.5 million. Lt. Gov. L. Douglas Wilder, the Democrat, raised almost than $6.7 million by the close of October.
For comparison. Gov. Gerald L. Baliles raised $4.4 million in his 1985 raise for governor.
Traditional summer fundraisers and $l,000-a-plate dinners account for a small bundle of collection dollars. However, the bulk of contributions came from a few individuals and corporations, mainly Northern Virginia real estate developers.
Northern Virginia home builder and developer Dwight Schar and his wife contributed $461,000 to Coleman’s campaign, according to the November edition of Virginia Busi
94.4%