Clinton coming in April to raise money for Margolies

Former President Bill Clinton will bring his star power to Philadelphia next month to raise money for Congressional candidate Margorie Margolies, joining an event at the Prime Rib in center city.

“It’s priceless from a Democratic primary perspective,” said Muhlenberg College political analyst Christoper Borick, speaking of Clinton’s ability to reel in checks. “Nobody else (in that race) can bring that kind of asset to the table.”

Margolies, who’s locked in a four-way primary battle for the 13th Congressional district, earned Clinton’s loyalty 20 years ago when she lost her Congressional seat after casting a tough budget vote for then-President Clinton. There’s an even closer tie: Margolies’ son is married to Chelsea, Clinton’s daughter.

Clinton’s visit puts to rest the notion that Bill and Hillary Clinton might avoid helping Margolies because Hillary could run for president next year and might want to avoid making enemies by entering a Democratic primary fight.

Margolies campaign strategist Ken Smukler confirmed that the Clinton event will be co-hosted by Montgomery County Commissioner Josh Shapiro and Radnor attorney Darren Check.

Margolies can use the money. Though her campaign has raised over $600,000 since she launched her effort, she’s spent most of it and as of January 1st had less on hand than any of her three rivals.

The candidates’ fundraising totals as of January 1:

Candidate Raised in cycle Spent in cycle On hand Marjorie Margolies $632,154 $453,487 $173,867 Daylin Leach $696,571 $216,564 $481,197 Brendan Boyle $545,781 $164,689 $381,102 Valerie Arkoosh $935,216 $286,236 $643,932