Buchanan's campaign chest tops $1 million

U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Sarasota, has topped the $1 million mark in his bid for a third term, far outpacing his challengers, according to campaign finance disclosure reports filed today.

The Sarasota Republican raised more than $166,000 in July, August and September to push his campaign fund-raising total to nearly $1.07 million, his campaign said in a filing with the Federal Election Commission.

Most of Buchanan’s third-quarter contributors were individuals, primarily from the real estate, construction and business communities in Manatee and Sarasota counties. Political action committees representing bankers, utilities, automakers and other businesses gave Buchanan $43,500 during the three-month period.

Buchanan’s campaign spent more than $139,000 during the reporting period, primarily for various campaign consultants, payroll, office rent and other operating expenses. The campaign had $731,823 in cash on hand as of Sept. 30.

James T. Golden, a Bradenton city councilman who is seeking the Democratic nomination for the seat, raised $15,340 during the quarter. His campaign has raised slightly more than $42,000 so far.

All of Golden’s contributions came from individuals throughout Florida, including Bradenton, Sarasota, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale. His campaign spent $26,548 from July through September, primarily for consultants, travel and office equipment.

He had $14,561 cash on hand as of Sept. 30.

No report was available for John G. Gish of Englewood, who filed paperwork with state elections officials on Sept. 24 to mount a non-party affiliated bid for the seat. A phone number for Gish could not be located.

-- Duane Marsteller