Tong Raises $550,000 in First 53 Days of Campaign.

Stamford Democratic legislator William Tong raised $550,000 in the second quarter fundraising period at the start of his campaign for the United States Senate seat being vacated by 4 term incumbent Joseph Lieberman. Tong, who launched his candidacy in May, will report having approximately $500,000 on hand.

Observers and activists will be watching to see how rival Susan Bysiewicz fares compared to Tong in the fundraising stakes.  Bysiewicz lagged far behind Democratic frontrunner Congressman Christopher Murphy in first quarter fundraising and potent endorsements.  If the beleaguered former secretary of the state falls behind novice Tong in the second quarter or in cash on hand, murmurs over her ability to carry on a competitive campaign will grow louder.