Big Money in Play in Texas Gubernatorial Race

The Texas Democrat running for governor, Wendy Davis, who leaped into the headlines last summer after an emotionally charged filibuster opposing restrictions on abortion, has raised $12.2 million for the six months ended Dec. 31, 2013, Politico reported Tuesday.

Davis, a state senator, faces Republican Attorney General Greg Abbott, who also has raised good money during the same time period: $11.5 million, spokesman Avdiel Huerta said. Both are in the campaign to succeed Gov. Rick Perry, a 2012 presidential candidate.

Davis' numbers put her "way past the credibility threshold," spokeswoman Rebecca Acuña told Politico. "They are huge, huge numbers, showing there is so much support and momentum for her race."

"This [Texas Victory Committee] is a joint effort between Wendy Davis and Battleground Texas," Acuña told The Texas Tribune. "The campaign has asked donors to contribute to the TVC, and that money goes to support the work those organizations conduct in making Wendy Davis the next governor."

Campaign manager Wayne Hamilton said that about 97 percent of Abbott's donations came from within the state.

"This is a campaign by Texans, for Texans, and Greg Abbott is humbled and excited by the widespread support from across the state," Hamilton said. "Our campaign will continue to talk about and promote ideas to make Texas' education system No. 1 in the nation, continue to grow jobs, limit the size and scope of government, and preserve individual freedom."

Related stories:

• Wendy Davis Gets Fundraising Boost From Elizabeth Warren
• Texas AG Abbott: Legal War Against Obamacare Has Just Begun