Already flush with cash, Bill Galvano holds another fundraiser

Former state Rep. Bill Galvano started the year with more than $211,000 in his campaign account, and he still doesn't have an opponent in his bid this year for a seat in the Florida Senate.

But taking no chances -- especially with the exact boundaries of his district still being determined by the redistricting process in Tallahassee -- Galvano on Thursday is holding another fund-raising event.

The reception is set for 5 to 7 p.m. at the Sarasota penthouse of Katie and Jesse Biter. The "suggested minimum contribution" is $100 per person. (For more information, including how to RSVP, go here.)

As of Dec. 31, Galvano had raised more than $348,000, and spent almost $137,000 on his campaign, according reports filed with the Florida Division of Elections.

Galvano is well known in Bradenton and Manatee County. However, redistricting could place Galavano in a district that extends from Manatee, through part of Hillsborough and into Polk County, including Lakeland, that he never represented while in the Florida House.

Establishing name recognition there, even if no one else enters the race, will take time and, of course, money.