In a battleground district in one of the nation's few swing states, Congressman David Wu (D-OR) is facing his toughest challenger thusfar in well-funded Iranian-American businesswoman Goli Ameri. In another key district in Oregon (one that George W. Bush won by a 48.5-47.0 margin in 2000), Congresswoman Darlene Hooley is also facing a tough challenger in Jim Zupancic.

Although Wu possessed a 3-1 cash on hand lead as of June 30 and Hooley's margin was even larger, a July rally for Ameri and Zupancic featuring President Bush brought in an estimated $200,000 for each Republican candidate. What is more, KATU News (Portland's ABC affiliate) is reporting that House Speaker Dennis Hastert is in Portland today raising even more cash for the Republican challengers.

"PORTLAND, ORE. - U.S. Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert will be in Portland today to help raise funds for Republican Congressional candidates Goli Ameri and Jim Zupancic."

If you're looking to donate money to an important House campaigns in a swing state that will spend almost every cent raised, I would suggest that David Wu and Darlene Hooley are great choices. What is more, if you want to contibute to a campaigns that will not only help the Democrats win back the House but also aid John Kerry's chances at winning the White House come November, you should strongly consider giving to these candidates. With Wu and Hooley spearheading GOTV in the state along with Senator Ron Wyden, Kerry will be able to divert time and energy to other key swing states, like Ohio and Missouri. To give to Wu, click here; to give to Hooley, click here.

Additionally, if you're in the Portland area, Wu is holding his annual event "Wu, You and Brew" this Wednesday, August 18 from 5:30 to 8:00 PM in the Ecotrust (781 NW 9th Ave in Portland). Trent w/the campaign (trent@wuforcongress.com) has the goods on the tickets.