Sherrill has mammoth $600k one-day fundraising haul

Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-Montclair) raised over $600,000 in her first 24 hours as an announced candidate for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, qualifying for matching funds under the state’s public financing program in just one day.

Sherrill formally announced her run for governor yesterday, nearly two weeks after winning a fourth term in Congress.

Candidates need to raise $580,000 to qualify for matching funds — New Jersey offers $2 for every $1 raised – with a $185,000 deductible.  That gives Sherrill roughly $1.25 million to spend on her primary campaign so far.

By accepting matching funds, candidates agree to a $8.7 million spending limit in the primary and a $5,800 contribution limit.

Jersey City Mayor Steve Fulop qualified for matching funds more than thirteen months ago.  Another Democrat, former Senate President Steve Sweeney, has also raised enough to begin drawing matching funds in January – at least as of September 30.  Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-Tenafly), the Human Fundraising Machine, has not yet released his early fundraising numbers; he announced his candidacy on Friday.

“Mikie is bringing something different to this campaign — a new type of leadership for New Jersey, forged through nearly 10 years in the U.S. Navy, and a fresh perspective to achieve big things for the people of this state,” said a campaign spokesman, Sean Higgins.  “The enthusiasm and support for Mikie’s vision has been exciting and encouraging as she introduces herself to New Jersey voters and travels across the state to hear both their concerns and aspirations for our future.”

Last year, Rep. Andy Kim (D-Moorestown) raised over $1 million in his first week as an announced candidate for U.S. Senate.  Kim is expected to take office next month.