Despite ending his fundraising period on November 27 due to the legislative session freeze for state officials, Rob McKenna concluded the year with a fundraising lead in the race for governor. McKenna raised $3.76 million between June 8 and November 27 and ended the year with $2.28 million in cash-on-hand. Democratic rival Jay Inslee raised $3.32 million through the end of the year with cash-on-hand, after debt, of $2.03 million. Approximately one-third of Inslee’s funds are transfers from the state Democratic Party and his Congressional account.

“These donations are about more than just having the resources to run a campaign,” said Randy Pepple, McKenna’s campaign manager. “They’re measures of the enthusiasm people have for the candidates. Rob’s successful fundraising makes it clear that there are a lot of voters out there who are excited about him and ready to join him in taking Washington in a New Direction.”