Abercrombie maintains huge lead in campaign fundraising

Gov. Neil Abercrombie holds a massive fundraising edge over state Sen. David Ige, his challenger in the Democratic primary.

Abercrombie raised $885,600 during the past six months for his re-election campaign, according to a campaign finance report filed Thursday, and about $4.7 million overall. The governor has spent $3.9 million.

Ige raised about $242,700 during the past six months. He has brought in about $389,600 in total. The state senator’s campaign also received a $10,000 loan from Keith Hiraoka, his campaign manager, for campaign expenses.

"Under Gov. Abercrombie’s leadership, Hawaii’s economy is growing again, state finances are healthy, student test scores are improving, and precious lands have been saved for future generations," William Kaneko, Abercrombie’s campaign manager, said in a statement. "Hawaii is clearly better today and our future will be even brighter with Gov. Abercrombie."

Ige, who has limited his advertising to radio, has sought to turn Abercrombie’s financial advantage against the governor, telling voters they should not let money determine the race.

"Our campaign is gaining momentum across the state because voters want a governor who will restore their trust in government," he said in a statement. "One year ago I began my campaign vowing to earn — not buy — the people’s vote, confident we would receive sufficient contributions to get our message out. Our campaign may be outspent but we definitely will not be outworked."

Former Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona, the leading Republican candidate, reported raising about $360,900 during the past six months. He started the election cycle with about $127,100 and had $16,900 at the end of last year.

"Since announcing my candidacy in May, the response has been overwhelming," Aiona said in a statement. "I am humbled and honored with every donation I receive. As the only candidate who has released detailed solutions, this sends a clear message that the people of Hawaii are ready for real solutions, not just rhetoric."

Former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann reported raising $159,000 during the past six months for his Hawaii Independent Party campaign for governor. He had about $16,250 at start of the election cycle.

Hannemann said his campaign started fundraising in earnest only after he formally filed papers in June. He said he hopes to raise between $750,000 and $1 million for the November general election.

"We’re just kind of saving everything up for the general," he said.