Chellie Pingree actually said...

Whether it was a senior citizen or a hardworking lobsterman, they could participate in my campaign.

More importantly, after I qualified for clean elections, I could spend the majority of my time talking to my constituents.

But again, you have to be--become a qualifying candidate. So you still have to find people to write you a $5 check.

The idea of raising funds, even the small amount necessary for a state house campaign, is daunting for many people.