Self-financing facts

Mark floated the notion this morning that Clinton would self-finance, and Marc reports that they're considering taking a loan.

I've got no news for you -- though it's been a few hours, and the campaign still hasn't answered my question on it -- but here's a little data.

First, the Clintons aren't Bloomberg, or even John Kerry. They also have two expensive households to run and lives to lead. But they may have more money than people think. Money Magazine reported that Bill earned $41 million in speaking fees in the first six years of his post-presidency, and estimated their net worth at $34 million, though other estimates are much lower.

And the Wall Street Journal reported that he could be due up to $20 million from severing his ties with Ron Burkle, whose Yucaipa fund he advised. It's a transaction that would merit a second look if they decide to self-fund.

So even after taxes, and after recent stock losses, they may be able to put enough money in to make a difference.

At some point, then, Bill Clinton may regret saying this in Iowa:

They say you couldn’t stop me from spending all the money I’ve saved over the last five years on Hillary’s campaign if I wanted to, even though it would clearly violate the spirit of campaign finance reform.

