The main super PAC supporting Rand Paul raised less money than many of his Republican rivals in the first half of 2015, confirming speculation that he would face difficulty financing his grassroots campaign.
The super PAC led by Paul’s former advisers, America’s Liberty PAC, raised $3.1 million, far less than nearly every other Republican candidate’s. Jeb Bush shattered records by raising $103 million for his super PAC, but even the allied groups of candidates who perform significantly worse than Paul in polls managed to outraise Paul’s by significant margins.
Rick Perry’s claimed $17 million, Chris Christie’s said it brought in $11 million, and even the group allied with Carly Fiorina — who is unlikely to have enough support to make the Republican debate — said it raised more than Paul with $3.4 million.
Paul does seem to have two major supporters, however: Philadelphia investor Jeff Yass and Nevada IT executive George Macricostas, who each gave about $1 million to support the group. Donors can make unlimited contributions to super PACs, but the groups aren’t allowed to coordinate how to spend that money with the campaign.
Paul’s own campaign also trailed the official operations of many other hopefuls: The Kentucky senator only raised $7 million in what are called “hard dollars.”
Paul has placed a particular emphasis on recruiting donors in Silicon Valley, but there is no sign that he succeeded: Only four donors with California addresses donated to his super PAC, for a total of $56,000.
It is possible, however, that many of Paul’s top donors instead decided to give to a second super PAC dedicated to electing him: Concerned American Voters, a grassroots organization that has not yet released its fundraising totals or donors. All super PACs are required to file reports by the end of next week.