“Campaign money plays a central role in the strategic decision-making of all major participants in congressional election politics: potential and actual candidates, party organizations, campaign donors, the press, and, eventually, voters. The Money Signal is an original, unique synthesis of how the decisions of multiple players interact to shape electoral processes.”

Gary C. Jacobson | author of "Presidents and Parties in the Public Mind"

"Thomsen’s important new book reframes our understanding of the role of money in elections. Thomsen shows how money is far more than just a resource that enables candidates to purchase goods and services for their campaigns. Fundraising has become a measuring rod by which all relevant political actors assess candidate quality and viability, assessments that in turn drive candidates’ successes and failures."

Frances E. Lee | Princeton University

"Essential reading for understanding how money truly shapes American politics, The Money Signal is a landmark contribution. Thomsen masterfully shows how and why early money matters, revealing how the 'money primary' acts as a signal of viability that influences candidates, donors, media, and party strategy. Thomsen's compelling empirical work reshapes our view of elections and representation."

Adam Bonica | Stanford University