The fundraising race in Colorado’s 7th Congressional District remains close, but the lone Republican in the contest maintained his lead through the 2nd quarter.

Rick O’Donnell raised $305,000 between April and June; his war chest now holds $859,000. O’Donnell, who is unopposed in the Republican primary, is the former director of the Colorado Commission on Higher Education.

Former state legislator Ed Perlmutter (D) raised nearly as much in the same period. His $300,000 puts his total on hand at $515,000. Perlmutter’s Democratic opponent and fellow former state legislator, Peggy Lamm, raised $243,000 but did not release the figure for how much she has on hand.

Herb Rubenstein, another competitor for the Democratic nomination, announced he would loan $50,000 to his own campaign, the second time he has done so. Rubenstein, who is considered a long shot, will begin airing commercials today that emphasize his opposition to the Iraq War.

The four candidates are running for the seat vacated by Rep. Bob Beauprez (R), who is running for Colorado governor. The primary will be held August 8.