The campaign for Assembly District 71 has attracted little attention within California’s political landscape. Incumbent Republican Assemblyman Randy Voepel is facing a challenge from Democrat James Elia.

Unlike the gubernatorial race or several Southern California congressional contests or the local state Senate District 28 race, Democrats have not poured money into Elia’s challenge; only $1,000 from the state party.

Through Sept. 22, he has received about $50,000 in contributions, which is about two-thirds of Voepel’s contributions. Since then Elia has received $6,000, of which $5,000 came from the Political Action for Classified School Employees. Voepel has collected $4,300 from three political action committees; the largest $2,000 from the New Car Dealers Association of San Diego.

In total, Voepel has received more than 100 contributions of which 18 were for more than $2,000 and another 24 for $2,000. His largest individual contributions were for $4,400, of which Philip Morris gave two, one in March and the second in June. The Barona Band of Mission Indians have given Voepel three contributions for a total of $8,700. The other large donors have been Chevron contributing $8,800 and AT&T, which has given the incumbent $8,000.

Through Sept. 22, Elia has received 60 contributions. The single largest individual gift was $4,500 from himself. The Sycuan Band of Mission Indians gave $4,400 during primary season.

Almost all of Elia’s contributions have come from individuals. However, Alan Goetz of Spring Valley has given Elia a total of $6,100, half in the past month. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers has given $3,500. Elia has received five other contributions of $1,000 or more.