Republicans can't raise money like they used to, and party members are starting to have trouble explaining what makes them special.

In addition, some said, they took into account the fact that the Republicans had raised far more money.

"The Republicans haven't raised money or put together a campaign in that district."

Republicans had raised an average of $173,170 and spent $132,188.

On paper, anyway, the concerns that Republicans raise are easy enough to understand.

Since the start of 1997, Republicans have raised more than $125 million in various national committees.

But when it came to the floor, Republicans raised a point of order about the committee meeting.

The typical Republican in those districts raised $80,493 and had $42,557 on hand.

But he agreed to put the matter off until the Republicans raise it formally in open court.

The Republicans raise tougher questions, to which even they have no ready answers.