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Early Fundraising Shapes 2026 Senate Races as Democrats Gain Key Battleground Edge

Federal filings reveal record-breaking hauls by incumbents, primary battles brewing for Republicans, and progressive leaders demonstrating financial clout.

Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., during a rally at Craig Ranch Regional Park in Las Vegas on March 20, 2025.
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California Rep. Young Kim was among nine Republicans in battleground House races who raised more than $1 million during the first quarter. (Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call)

Overview

  • Democrats hold an early fundraising advantage in key Senate battlegrounds, despite facing open-seat challenges in Michigan, Minnesota, and New Hampshire.
  • Sen. Jon Ossoff set a record for first-quarter off-year fundraising with $11 million, bolstering his reelection bid in Georgia.
  • Republican incumbents like Sen. John Cornyn and Sen. Bill Cassidy are preparing for competitive primary challenges, with Cornyn reporting $5.6 million cash on hand and Cassidy holding $7.5 million.
  • Progressive leaders such as Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez raised $11.4 million and $9.6 million respectively, showcasing their continued grassroots support.
  • Emerging GOP primary battles, including Ken Paxton's challenge to Cornyn in Texas and John Fleming's campaign in Louisiana, could reshape the party's 2026 Senate field.