Kamala Harris’ campaign and affiliated Democratic groups have raised over $1 billion by the end of the last quarter, securing a strong financial advantage over Republican candidate Donald Trump in the final stretch of the presidential race. In September alone, Harris’ campaign, the Democratic National Committee (DNC), and state parties collectively raised $359 million, with $222 million coming directly from the Harris campaign.
Large Spending to Fuel Advertising Blitz
While Harris’ campaign brought in significant funds, it also spent heavily, shelling out $270 million in September on a massive advertising effort spanning radio, television, online platforms, and billboards. The campaign and its affiliated committees entered October with $346 million on hand, based on federal filings.
Trump Campaign Trails Financially
The Trump campaign, along with the Republican National Committee and associated groups, raised $160 million in September, an improvement from August’s $130 million, leaving them with $283 million on hand as October began. This marks a financial gap between the two campaigns, with Harris maintaining a strong lead.
Grassroots Donations and Star-Powered Fundraisers
Harris’ campaign highlighted a grassroots fundraising approach, with 95% of third-quarter donations being under $200. Around 6 million donors contributed 13.1 million times to the campaign, with 4.3 million being first-time contributors this election cycle.
Harris also enjoyed significant fundraising support from high-profile events. In one late-September weekend, her campaign raised $55 million in California alone. A Los Angeles event featuring stars like Jessica Alba, Lily Tomlin, and Stevie Wonder brought in $28 million, while a San Francisco event attended by former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi contributed another $27 million.
Harris’ strong financial backing and large-scale fundraising efforts position her campaign favorably as the election enters its final phase.
