PORTLAND  Maine Freedom to Marry [MFTM], the political action committee created to protect marriage rights for same-sex couples in Maine, filed its first financial report with the Maine Secretary of State today. 

The report documents contributions received and expenditures made since the political action committee was formed in early June through midnight on July 5, 2009.  During that time, Maine Freedom to Marry raised $138,640 in cash contributions.  Of that total, $81,175 (59%) was contributed by Mainers. Out of 352 donors, 192 (54%) were CONTACT: Jesse Connolly, 207.749.5933 

Jesse Connolly, MFTM campaign manager, said, This campaign is off to a strong start. For the past five weeks, we have been focused on getting this organization up and running.  During that time, Mainers from across the state have begun to put their money where their hearts are.  These contributions represent the desire of Mainers to protect marriage for all Maine families. 

Connolly emphasized that the campaign will continue to draw on the strengths that secured the marriage law in May.  This campaign is going to win because we have extraordinary grassroots support from regular Mainers.  We fully expect to be outspent by those who would deny lesbian and gay couples the right to marry.  But this is an issue that speaks to peoples hearts.  We know that the legislature and the Governor responded to popular demand when they passed the marriage law.  Leading up to November 3rd, our opposition will have money on their side.  When Mainers cast their ballots, we will have the votes.

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