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Gov. Neil Abercrombie has raised more than $1.1 million for his 2014 re-election campaign, an early validation from donors after an uneven first year in office.
The Democrat held three fundraisers last year, including a major event in August at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
"This is a reflection of the depth of confidence and support for Gov. Abercrombie since he took office 13 months ago," Bill Kaneko, Abercrombie’s campaign manager, said in a statement. "The governor and his campaign team are gratified by the overwhelming support."
The fundraising amount, which covers the last six months of 2011, came during a period when other prominent Democrats were actively raising money for 2012 campaigns. The governor pulled in more money during that time than U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono and former Congressman Ed Case, who are engaged in a high-profile Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate.
Lt. Gov. Brian Schatz raised more than $222,330 during the last six months of the year, according to his campaign finance report.
David Chang, chairman of the state GOP, said Republicans are concentrating on campaigns this year but would like to find a recruit by next year to prepare for a contest against Abercrombie.
"Obviously, the incumbent will have that advantage," Chang said of fundraising.
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