Florida Democrats outraise Republicans during crucial period

August 27, 2016

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- The Florida Democratic Party for the first time in years is getting more money into its accounts than the Republican Party of Florida.

The two parties late Friday filed state fundraising reports for the last five months that showed Democrats raised $4.72 million in cash compared to $4.1 million for Republicans. These reports are separate from federal accounts.

Republicans control the Florida Legislature and governor's mansion and usually raise substantially higher amounts than Democrats.

But a split among GOP leaders has fragmented their efforts.

Gov. Rick Scott has stopped raising money for the state party. Republicans who control the state Senate have also set up their own fundraising account separate from the party.

Both parties took in millions from corporations and businesses.