Deborah Ross leads Richard Burr in US Senate race fundraising

Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Deborah Ross raised more money than Republican incumbent Richard Burr in the first quarter of 2016, according to figures released by the campaigns.

The numbers show the race is already attracting serious cash, with Ross raising $1.3 million and Burr bringing in $1.1 million in the first three months of the year.

But Burr has so far held a major financial advantage over Ross with more money in the bank. Burr spokesman said the campaign has $5.8 million on hand at the end of the first quarter, while Ross’ campaign hasn’t yet released its cash-on-hand number. At the beginning of 2016, though, she had $453,000 on hand.

Ross’ campaign is touting the first quarter contributions as a sign of strength, although she still lags behind Burr in most polls.

“Deborah’s fundraising numbers reflect the strong groundswell of support from voters across North Carolina,” spokesman Austin Vevruka said. “People are tired of politics as usual and of people in Washington not working to address their needs or stand up for their values – and this grassroots momentum shows it.”

Burr’s campaign is focusing more on its long-term fundraising success.

“With over $7 million in donations this cycle, Sen. Burr is grateful for the support he has received for his re-election campaign,” spokesman Alex Johnson said. “Voters clearly want a senator that knows how to keep our families safe and as chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, Sen. Burr has been working tirelessly to keep all of us safe.”

This story was originally published April 13, 2016 at 6:00 PM with the headline "Deborah Ross leads Richard Burr in US Senate race fundraising."