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JUNEAU - Ethan Berkowitz and Jake Metcalfe, two Democratic candidates looking to unseat Republican incumbent U.S. Rep. Don Young, announced campaign fundraising efforts Thursday.

Candidates for federal offices had until just before 11:59 p.m. Thursday to file 2007 year-end reports with the Federal Elections Commission.

Berkowitz, a former Alaska House minority leader, announced raising $124,201 in the final quarter of 2007. He announced his plans to run in mid-October.

Berkowitz said he collected money from 577 contributors.

"This campaign is catching fire," Berkowitz campaign manager Charles Boyle said in a prepared statement. "It has the support from people of all ages and all parties all across Alaska."

Metcalfe, a former head of the state's Democratic Party, said he raised $92,000 last year and another $33,000 this year from more than 500 donors.

"This is truly a grassroots campaign, with people from all walks of life, including independents and Republicans, making donations, expressing their support and volunteering," Metcalfe said in a statement.

Reports also are expected from Young, Republican challenger and state House Rep. Gabrielle LeDoux, and Democratic candidate Diane Benson. Reports also are due for those running for U.S. Senate.