RNC Raised $6.7M In March
The Republican National Committee raised $6.7M in March, up from $5.1M in February. The RNC received $5.8M in January. The party now has $23.9M cash-on-hand at the close of the first quarter of 2009.
The average contribution to the RNC during the first quarter of 2009 was $55.27, according to a party release.
"The Republican National Committee ended the first quarter of 2009 strong with a solid increase in our fundraising from just one month ago," said RNC Chairman Michael Steele. "Thanks to our many contributors, the RNC is on solid financial footing as we build an organization to support our candidates and state parties."
Steele has a lot riding on the financial strength of the RNC. With the party out of power, his ability to bring in money in an off year is critical to their prospects for rebirth in the 2009/2010 cycle. Of greater personal importance, Steele, who took the helm in January, has committed a series of gaffes -- picking a fight with Rush Limbaugh, pitching an "off the hook" party rebuilding strategy and "hip hop" makeover, and saying that abortion is a woman's choice, among other flubs -- that left many questioning his leadership skills and political savvy. A solid fundraising take could go a long way toward restoring confidence in his organizing skills.
The Democratic National Committee has yet to release March numbers. The committee, under new chairman Va Gov. Tim Kaine, raised $3.2M in February, trailing the RNC.
Join the Discussion
The National Journal Group has the right (but not the obligation) to monitor the comments and to remove any materials it deems inappropriate.
Comments powered by Disqus