Filings show Democratic candidates have edge in Minnesota campaign cash wars

Most Democrats running for statewide office in Minnesota entered the final seven-week stretch with a big cash advantage.

Why it matters: Campaigns need cash to get their message to voters.

Zoom in: Several GOP candidates posted strong fundraising numbers since the last reports were due, but it wasn't enough to close the gap.

• Committees for the DFL caucuses in the state House and Senate also have an edge, the reports, which cover money raised and spent through Sept. 20, show.
• Individual state legislative candidates didn't have to report this week.

Of note: Ryan Wilson, the GOP candidate for auditor, paid for most campaign expenses himself and reported those expenditures as "in-kind" contributions, which boosted his bottom line.

What to watch: Independent groups that can quickly raise and spend unlimited sums can have a big impact late in close races.