RALEIGH – Three candidates for the state’s open 2022 U.S. Senate race are reporting topline fundraising numbers ahead of the Federal Election Commission’s (FEC) July 15 deadline.
On the Democratic side, former state Supreme Court chief justice Cheri Beasley reported raising nearly $1.3 million. That amounts bests state Sen. Jeff Jackson, who raised just over $700,000. In his first quarter report, Jackson raised $1.3 million. He entered the race on January 26.
On Wednesday, Beasley wrote on Twitter, “I’m so grateful for all of the support and enthusiasm we’re seeing across NC. For too long, our senators have been more focused on their own self-interest than serving our state. Together we’ll make that happen.”
Jackson’s amount is half of what he raised in the first quarter, but insisted, “We’re seeing real momentum behind the movement we’re building, and we’re overwhelmed by the support we’ve received from folks across the state,” in a release from his campaign.
Former state Sen. Erica Smith and the remaining announced Democratic candidates have not reported fundraising totals either publicly or to the FEC.
Former Gov. Pat McCrory reported first among Republican candidates, announcing he raised $1.24 million since entering the race in April.
McCrory’s campaign said over $1 million came from in-state donations with over 8,000 total donors.
“Our campaign as a Washington outsider who has solved real problems is resonating across North Carolina,” McCrory said in a statement announcing the total. “We’ve proven that we are the only candidate with the record of accomplishments and the ability to marshal the resources necessary to win a statewide primary and general election against the well-funded far-left.”
On Twitter, McCrory adviser Jordan Shaw wrote, “Big starting quarter for @PatMcCroryNC. $1.24m raised, $1m from in-state donors. Unmatched support in NC. Only candidate with viable path to victory in primary & general.”
It remains to be seen, however, what amount McCrory spent in the quarter and how much of that remains on hand to spend.
Fundraising reports have not been released by Rep. Ted Budd, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump in early June, and former U.S. Rep. Mark Walker. Both Budd and Walker entered the Senate race with cash from their U.S. House of Representatives campaign accounts. Budd held the edge over Walker, reporting $1.1 million on hand vs. Walker, who reported $900,000 on hand.
