By Kevin Lee (217)528-9604

SPRINGFIELD  –  The governor’s primary races may steal the spotlight but they’re not the only ones pouring in the cash.

With just days before the state’s primary election, candidates for statewide office are pouring in hundreds of thousands of dollars to stay competitive in their races.

Jim Nowlan, a political science researcher with the University of Illinois, says it’s one of the most open primary elections in recent memory.

“There seems to be numerous candidates and that’s good for democracy, but it’s hard for the voter to distinguish among the candidates. That’s why money is such a critical tool for those who have it because it generates name identification and positive name identification,” he said.

State records indicate there are 12 active candidates for lieutenant governor, six for state comptroller and four for state treasurer.

With such an open field, candidates are vying for any  advantage they can get.

State Rep. Dave Winters, R-Rockford, expected campaigns to get feisty before the primary election on Feb. 2.

“In a tight race, elbows are being sharpened, the pads are coming off. In a close election, that’s when the gloves come off,” he said.

State Rep. David Miller, D-Dolton, has spent $118,000 in his campaign to become state comptroller.

“It’s not just money that does it. I believe it’s campaign strategy and message. It’s got to be a package that you put together when you campaign. Money certainly helps but it’s not the end-all, be-all,” he said.

Democratic rival Raja Krishnamoothi has spent more than six times that amount over the same period.

Krishnaoorthi campaign spokesman Mark Schauerte said even with the Internet and cheaper ways to reach out to voters, expensive television ads are essential to a campaign.

“The reality is that to be able to send a message to a state as large as it is here in Illinois, you have to spend money on television. That’s just the nature of it,” he said.

Jason Plummer, a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, spent more than $376,000 during the last six months in 2009.

He acknowledged the help of his donors during a difficult economic situation.

“I know people out there are struggling. I know people out there are fighting property taxes and they’re making mortgage payments and I know people are hurting. When somebody writes me a check, I couldn’t tell you how deeply appreciative I am of that,” he said.

Voters will make their way to the polls on Feb. 2 for the state primary election.