Drew Wilson
September fundraising reports are in for House District 80, and Republican candidate Byron Donalds has a lot to celebrate.
The Collier County businessman raised $19,060 last month, giving him a cash-on-hand total of $65,577 seven months into his campaign. His September report alone shows more contributions than the other two candidates in the race combined.
“I am honored that so many friends and neighbors have stepped up to support our campaign,” Donalds said in a press release. “Our conservative message of economic prosperity, educational excellence, and strong families is resonating with the voters of Southwest Florida, and we will continue working hard to bring these principles to Tallahassee.”
Donalds’ total came from 79 contributions six checks for the maximum donation of $1,000. Notable donors include former USC Trojan and NFL offensive tackle Winston Justice, who owns a home in the district, and Naples attorney and big-time Republican donor Kermit Sutton.
The other Republican in the race, attorney Joseph Davidow, collected $2,094 for the month and has about $13,000 on-hand four months after filing for the seat. Democrat John Lundin has $137 in his campaign account through with months.
District 80 is currently held by termed-out Republican Rep. Matt Hudson, who is running for the District 23 seat in the Senate. The district covers parts of Hendry and Collier counties and carries a massive advantage for Republicans, which make up about 44 percent of the electorate compared to about 31 percent for Democrats.
Hudson didn’t face any Election Day opposition in 2014, but no-party candidate Pam Brown was able to take about 34 percent of the vote to Hudson’s 66 percent in the 2012 election.
