Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly didn’t see a big boost in fundraising associated with announcing former Congressional colleague Gwen Graham as his running mate.
Despite a lack of an immediate bump, he is still in pole position, even as state Rep. Dotie Joseph entered the race in early June, days after Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings withdrew his candidacy after a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Between June 1 and June 12, Jolly raised $137,784 to his campaign account and $118,592 to his Florida 2026 political committee.
Soap heiress Barbara Stiefel, a long-time supporter of Democratic campaigns and causes, gave $100,000 of what the committee brought in. Her donation came in June 11, after it was clear Graham was the pick.
Jolly carried roughly $2 million forward as of June 12, spending in total roughly what he raised during the 12-day period.
Joseph entered the race during qualifying and seeded her account with a $3,000 loan and $7,650 in contributions. Her campaign treasurer and her law firm were among those cutting checks.
Whoever emerges from the Democratic Primary on August 18 likely will face a cash disadvantage, if the Republican nominee is U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds.
Between his campaign account and political committee, the Donalds operation has roughly $65,000 to spend.
