Mikie’s Millions: Democrat Sets Fundraising Records In NJ-11

It’s tough to run for elected office without the war chest to make it happen. But Democratic congressional candidate Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is raising big bucks for her bid to replace soon-to-retire U.S. Rep. Frelinghuysen, her campaign reported.

On Monday, Sherrill announced a second quarter fundraising total of nearly $1.9 million, “a new record for New Jersey U.S. House races.” The quarter brings Sherrill’s total war chest to $4.2 million; she heads into November’s general election with $2.9 million cash on hand.

The former U.S. Navy pilot, federal prosecutor and mother of four previously set the New Jersey fundraising record for U.S. House candidates by raising $1.1 million in the first quarter of 2018.

• See related article: Frelinghuysen Challengers Raise Big Bucks (But Will It Be Enough?)

Sherrill soundly topped runner-up Tamara Harris for the Democratic nomination in the 11th District during the June Primary Election. She’ll face Republican State Assemblyman Jay Webber in November.

It will be the first time since 1992 that voters will not see longtime incumbent Frelinghuysen's name on the ballot. Frelinghuysen had dramatically outspent every opponent he faced since 2000, sometimes by as much as a 45 to 1 ratio, according to data at opensecrets.org.

• See related article: NJ District 11 2018 Congressional Primary Election Results
• See related article: Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen Announces Retirement

“The priorities of our campaign continue to resonate in this community,” Sherrill said Monday in a press statement. “Tax relief, quality and affordable healthcare, and growing New Jersey’s economy are top concerns for the people of New Jersey. I am incredibly honored to have the support of so many Americans who are ready for new leadership in Congress that puts people first.”

Read more about Sherrill’s stance on the issues facing New Jersey’s 11th District and the nation – including finance – here.

• See related article: Joe Biden Endorses Mikie Sherrill's Bid For US Congress

Sherrill is no stranger to the political reality that big money often results in big vote totals. After gaining the endorsement of End Citizens United (ECU), a political action committee that supports Democrat candidates in key local races, Sherrill released the following statement:

“The outsized influence of money in American politics gives corporations and the people with the most money too much control over public policy and governance.”

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File Photo: Mikie Sherrill