The Associated Press is reporting that the latest federal campaign-finance filings show that the 9th District congressional battle is attracting more money from some candidates’ pocketbooks.

As the AP states:

Former state tourism director Blaine Luetkemeyer loaned his campaign $325,000 last month in an effort to keep pace with rival Bob Onder, a state lawmaker.

Onder, of Lake St. Louis, lent his campaign $250,000 earlier this year and says he may throw even more into the race.

Luetkemeyer, of St. Elizabeth, has already spent much of the loan as his campaign ramped up TV advertising this month. He spent $326,000 over the last 3 1/2 months according to his campaign finance report released Thursday.

Five Republicans and four Democrats are competing to succeed incumbent Rep. Kenny Hulshof, R-Columbia, who is running for governor instead of re-election.