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NEW YORK, NY September 21, 2004 — John Kerry's fundraiser netted 4 million dollars last night, according to his campaign. Democrats say New York has contributed 52 million dollars to Kerry and their party. WNYC's Beth Fertig has more.

Enthusiasm is the party line at political fundraisers. But with six weeks to go in this close election, so is anxiety. Last night, Democratic fundraiser Toni Goodale acknowledged she hasn't been so confident lately.

GOODALE: I may be talking to some people next week. I felt I had to raise at least about 250 thousand to be able to give some judgment calls.

Not that raising money gives her so much access, she notes. But Goodale says what a lot of party leaders and activists are thinking about Kerry.

GOODALE: well what I would say if I were to call some people next week is that I hope he'll be as specific as possible about what he's going to do over the next couple of months.

Kerry's multiple attacks yesterday on the President's record in Iraq were cheered by New York Democrats.

KERRY: After that statue fell in Baghdad Kofi Anan held the United Nations out and said we're prepared to help to do this now. But no, no, not this administration. They were too interested in making sure that Haliburton had the contracts.

Brian Kaplan said he expects Kerry to be more aggressive.

KAPLAN: Really addressing the criticisms that have been thrown his way over the last few weeks instead of sitting idly by. I think it's time to attack head on.

New York Democrats who have given their time and money are waiting eagerly to see if he does. For WNYC I'm Beth Fertig.