The Federal Election Commission’s quarterly filing deadline has made public the fundraising data for the 2024 Republican presidential primary candidates. Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida emerged as the leader, raising over $20 million since announcing his candidacy. However, only a small percentage of his contributions came from small donors. Former President Donald Trump’s campaign reported $17.7 million in funds.
DeSantis’s campaign manager celebrated their lead in fundraising, emphasizing the enthusiasm for DeSantis and his movement. Despite raising the most in the past quarter, DeSantis has less cash on hand compared to both Trump and Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina. Trump has the most funds available with $22 million, while Scott has an impressive $21 million. Scott’s large amount of available funds is notable given his lower polling stature.
Republican strategists believe that there is an opportunity for other GOP candidates following perceived missteps by Trump in Iowa, which hosts the first Republican presidential caucuses. Trump continues to lead in the polls, followed closely by DeSantis as his main competitor.
