Charlie Justice Planning Fundraiser/Birthday Bash

Rep. Charlie Justice, candidate for 16th Senate District, had a stellar fundraising quarter, but still has not shaken off the image of being an unimpressive fundraiser. He raised $ 75,391.69 - $55,930 in checks and the rest in the form of in kind donations during the second quarter, however $20,000 of that came in the form of a single check from the Florida Democratic Party. Another $16,461.69 was in the form of in kind donations from the party. In kind donations from parties typically come in the form of paying for staff and overhead. Because Representatives Kim Berfield and Frank Farkas are in a highly competitive primary (though Berfield has a definite, though not overwhelming edge in fundraising), the Republican Party of Florida will not be making contributions in this race until after the primary.

Despite continued weakness in fundraising, Justice is still gamely engaging in an aggressive fundraising schedule. One of his next events is a low dollar event celebrating his 38th birthday at a Devil Rays baseball game on July 21. Tickets to the event are... $38. Are firefighters will grilling for the pre-game tailgate.

The purpose of many low dollar events is less to raise significant funds, than to energize volunteers and supporters.

Campaign finance numbers are courtesy of the Florida Division of Elections.