Republican and Conservative political analysis and commentary

The Mitt Romney presidential campaign announced today that it raised $23 million in the first quarter of the year, including $20.63 million in contributions that can be spent in the primary race, and a $2.35 million loan from Romney.

The strength of Governor Romney's fundraising demonstrates that his message of change in Washington through innovation and transformation is resonating with people across this country.

"Governor Romney is winning over voters and supporters because he is the candidate with the best ideas and the most detailed vision for leading the country into the future. Governor Romney's fundraising totals are indicative of the extraordinary success he has had reaching out and discussing important issues with the American people," said Romney for President campaign spokesman Kevin Madden.

Romney was always expected to be able to raise big sums of money, so that $2.35 million loan seems a bit odd - usually rich guys don't loan their campaign money until near the end. But before Romney was governor of Massachusetts he was a businessman and a venture capitalist - he understands the concept of investing up front for a bigger payoff down the road. A one-term governor with limited name recognition nationally, Romney probably wouldn't have been able to raise $20.63 million without seeding his campaign venture at the start-up.