New York Mayor Bloomberg Sets Dubious Record of the Most Any Individual Has Spent on Himself for Public Office

New York City Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg has achieved a national record and perhaps a world record. Unfortunately, it is not for track or field, but the most any individual has spent of his own money in the pursuit of public office. He has already spent $85 million on his own reelection and will likely reach $140 million by November 3rd. That will bring his own spending to $250 million — that’s right a quarter of billion dollars. Do you love me now?

New Jersey Gov. Jon S. Corzine is not skimpy on spending his own dough: putting out $130 million in two races for governor and one for United States Senate. Steve Forbes spent $114 million into his two bids for president. By this measure, Ross Perot is a miser. He spent $65 million in his quest for the White House in 1992 and $10 million in his bid four years later.

Bloomberg has outspent his opponent, William C. Thompson Jr., 14 to 1. Thompson has only $6 million.

This may also make Bloomberg the single growth industry in the city.

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