Democratic candidates seeking to lead the ticket in November reported first-quarter fundraising totals Friday, offering an early snapshot of the 2026 election cycle.
Gov. Ned Lamont and Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, who are seeking a third term, said they raised a combined $416,811.55 during the quarter, more than double their previous quarterly total. Their campaign has raised $845,950.92 overall.
More than 778 donors contributed to Lamont’s campaign during the quarter, with an average donation of $166 and support from 139 towns. He has raised $214,251.77 since launching his campaign in November.
Bysiewicz reported raising $287,382.21 from more than 854 donors, with contributions from 151 towns and an average donation of $336.
On the Republican side, New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart has already qualified for public financing in the gubernatorial race, securing an $806,875 grant ahead of the party convention and eligibility for up to $15.4 million for the general election if she wins the nomination.
State Sen. Ryan Fazio also reached the public financing requirement in January, raising $272,069 in less than five months, the quickest to reach the threshold of any Republican candidate.
Attorney General William Tong, who announced his reelection bid Wednesday, said he raised more than $100,700 within 36 hours, surpassing the threshold needed to qualify for a grant under the state’s Citizens’ Election Program. His campaign said the pace was the fastest recorded for a statewide candidate under the program.
Candidates for attorney general must raise $100,700 in qualifying contributions, ranging from $5 to $340, from individual donors. Once approved by the State Elections Enforcement Commission, candidates are eligible for a $1,125,750 public financing grant for the general election.
Tong said he reached the threshold through small-dollar donations collected over two days without holding fundraising events. The contributions will be reported in his next scheduled filing with the elections commission.
Editor’s note: This article was updated to reflect that state Sen. Ryan Fazio reached the public financing requirement in January.
