Michele Bachmann Out Raises Mitt Romeny

Not that it matters all that much (as Mitt Romeny can self-finance to some extent), but GOP radical Michele Bachman has out fundraised presumed 2012 GOP presidential contender Mitt Romney in the 1st quarter of 2011:

Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., raised a combined total of $2.2 million in the first quarter of 2011, outgaining presumed presidential contender Mitt Romney who raised $1.9 million over the same period.

Bachmann is a formidable fundraiser. The Washington Post recently ranked her the top fundraiser in the House during the 2009-2010 election cycle. This latest fundraising haul, coupled with her frequent visits to Iowa and New Hampshire, show she may be moving closer to a presidential run, and that she may have the financial backing to sustain a campaign.

Rep. Ron Paul, R-Texas, raised $3 million during the first quarter but the majority was raised through his Campaign for Liberty.  Since it is a 501 c(4) non-profit, its funds couldn't be transferred to a potential presidential campaign.

A Bachman presidential bid should be the hope of every Democrat and the chagrin of every Republican as she would undoubtedly push the debate further right and help feed the Democratic narrative of characterizing the field of GOP candidates as too "radical" to govern.  As far as Bachman's fundraising prowess is concerned, I must say that it baffles me.  Irregardless of whether or not she runs Rep. Bachman will continue to be a force if she can raise money like this all year.