Tennessee Federation of College Democrats

Bredesen Is On the Move

The campaign to re-elect Governor Phil Bredesen said it raised $2.7 million during its seven-month fundraising period in 2005, bringing the campaign’s total funds raised to $5.7 million since 2003.

In documents filed today with the Tennessee Registry of Election Finance, the Bredesen campaign reported more than $4.4 million in cash on hand as of December 31, the end of the most recent reporting period. The re-elect campaign has received contributions from every county in Tennessee.

“I’m pleased to be headed into this election year with a broad base of financial support and the resources necessary to run a successful statewide campaign,” Bredesen said. “I’m particularly gratified by the grassroots support I’ve received from all 95 counties.”

In each of the past three years, the Bredesen re-elect campaign has raised funds from June through December following a self-imposed blackout period during legislative sessions. During each month of active fundraising, the campaign raised an average of about $272,000.

Bredesen’s re-elect campaign is believed to be Tennessee’s first gubernatorial campaign to voluntarily limit its annual fundraising window. The campaign will maintain the self-imposed blackout period — unless credible opposition emerges and begins fundraising during that period. In that case, the Bredesen campaign would exercise its legal right to do the same.

Assuming there is opposition, the Bredesen re-elect campaign has set a total fundraising goal of $15 million. The November 7 general election is 280 days away.

Source: Bredesen for Governor