DNC Reports Lower Fundraising Than RNC Ahead of 2026 Midterms

In Georgia, Sen. Jon Ossoff raised $14 million and has $31.7 million on hand. In Texas, state Rep. James Talarico raised $27 million. Former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper raised nearly $14 million for his Senate bid, while former Alaska Rep. Mary Peltola collected close to $9 million.

In Ohio, former Sen. Sherrod Brown raised $12.5 million. These candidates collectively hold more than $80 million in cash on hand. Donors have multiple options, including super PACs and outside groups, allowing more control over spending. A $100,000 donor can distribute funds to various organizations.

A DNC official stated that the committee has about 50% more cash on hand than at a similar point after the 2016 election, with stronger overall fundraising. Small-dollar donations exceeded $6 million in March, and 54 donors contributed over $100,000 this cycle, compared to 35 in 2017-2018.

The official described the debt as resulting from early investments in voter registration, organizing, and state-level infrastructure. DNC Chair Ken Martin said in a CNN interview that the party is investing early to compete in all races, citing Democratic wins in nearly 90% of key races and 30 flipped state legislative seats.

“We’re no longer going to be a party that just waits for the midterm election to come along," Martin said. A DNC member stated that the fundraising gap reflects the party's position out of power but highlighted grassroots energy and early organizing efforts. A DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee member said big donors typically take time to return after a presidential loss, and early investments are yielding wins across the country.”