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Although the gubernatorial election is still a year away, early financial reports show that all six GOP candidates have raised far less than incumbent Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. Of the seven GOP gubernatorial candidates, only three appear to show any financial strength: Rebecca Dow, Louie Sanchez and Greg Zanetti.
State House Representative Rebecca Dow has raised the most out of the GOP gubernatorial candidates. According to the secretary of state’s website, Dow currently has raised $450,633. That amount includes $105,870 that was transferred from her old legislative account. Dow had $337,155 cash in hand as of October 11.
Greg Zanetti, a financial advisor and military veteran, has displayed the most financial strength behind Dow. Zanetti has raised $339,103. Of that, $153,968 came from outside contributions while $185,135 are loans.
Louie Sanchez, a medical sales representative and co-owner of Calibers Indoor Shooting Range, has raised $139,225. Sanchez has openly expressed his support for pro-life legislation and his opposition toward any form of background checks for new gun owners.
Sandoval County Commissioner Jay Block has raised $86,162 as of October 11. Block benefited from small donations, with the largest donation coming in at $5,200.
Businesswoman Karen Bedonie has raised $50,723. Similar to Block, the bulk of donations to Bedonie have been small contributions.
Executive Director of Right To Life Committee of New Mexico, Ethel Rose Maharg, raised $8,708.
Retired teacher Tim Walsh has yet to begin fundraising.
Democratic Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, meanwhile, has raised over $2.5 million for her reelection campaign. Lujan Grisham has raised more than double the amount that all GOP candidates have raised so far combined.
Republicans will decide who will face the governor in the June primary next year.