Heller challenger reports fundraising total of $3,196

CARSON CITY -- A Sparks pawn shop manager who is challenging Rep. Dean Heller in the Republican primary for the 2nd Congressional District seat has filed a statement that he has raised $3,196 in contributions.

Candidate James Smack said he filed the report with the Federal Election Commission even though he was not required to unless he raised a minimum of $5,000 by June 30. He added he now has raised more than $5,000.

Heller reported raising more than $1.2 million.

While the incumbent said recently he was not taking Smack lightly, Heller added he was concentrating more on his general election opponent, former Democratic Party chairwoman Jill Derby.

Smack, a Ron Paul supporter, realizes he is a long shot in the race, but remains confident he will do well because of his volunteers. If Heller beats him, Smack said he will back him in the general election.

"It seems to me Dean Heller is coming over to my way of thinking," added Smack, noting how Heller called for the defeat of Republicans members of Congress who do not support core party values of low taxes, less government interference in business and peoples' lives and conservative thinking.