New media journalist Ana Marie Cox (pictured, from her site) passed an imaginary hat to save the election story of a lifetime--raising a couple thousand dollars in a few days. Could her campaign save struggling nonfiction writers in this floundering economy?

When Radar magazine folded last week, Cox lost her funding to cover the end of John McCain's campaign. Undaunted, Cox offered her readers a variety of incentives to contribute money, including: IM access, the chance to ask a McCain staffer one question, one-on-one dinners with top donors, and finally, a chance to name the seat where Cox sits during press events.

So far, she's reported raising nearly $2,500--a fund-raising success story that could encourage nonfiction writers struggling to fund their reporting efforts. What do you think?

"I am humbled and amazed by the generosity of those out there in the tubes. You have made it difficult for me to maintain my air of jaded bitterness, but since I assume that is one of things you are paying for ... I shall continue to struggle to keep it. Perhaps I will watch some more 'Rock of Love' re-runs. Or Sarah Palin rallies."

Editor's note: FishBowlNY caught up with Cox today, landing an exclusive interview about her project.