Even a dismal economy can't stop money from flowing into Student Government party campaigns.
As of Sept. 14, the Unite Party has received $2,395, the most contributions of any party. The Orange and Blue Party has received $616.77 and the Progress Party has received $585, according to campaign expense reports.
Unite Party Treasurer Ryan Mills thinks the Unite Party's budget will near $5,000. The party plans to spend most of its money on T-shirts, which will cost about $3,000, Mills said.
The party also spent a pretty penny on stickers, which cost $712.50, according to expense reports.
Mills said the party has a large support base, including former senators and campaign volunteers who aren't members of Student Senate.
Reports show Student Body President Jordan Johnson also donated to the cause, giving $125 to the Unite Party.
Orange and Blue Party treasurer Taylor Cinalli said the party also received donations from students and hopes to raise about $3,000.
Orange and Blue Party President Kyle Huey gave $400, the largest individual donation as of Sept. 14.
Most of the Orange and Blue Party's money has been spent on fliers. According to the expense report, the party spent about $155 on fliers so far. The party also plans to buy banners and T-shirts, Cinalli said.
"We're trying to encourage our senators to get our message out there so that everyone can be more involved," she said.
Progress Party Treasurer Guillermo Lopez said his party is more concerned with spreading its ideas than spending its money. It does not have a specific spending goal, he said.
The Progress Party spent $507.07 on T-shirts and about $63 on fliers, according to the Sept. 14 report.
Lopez said party received donations from party officials, candidates and volunteers but doesn't require candidates to donate.
"We do try to let the message be known that campaigning doesn't come free," he said.
