Vermont Congressman Peter Welch already has more than $567,000 in campaign cash on hand more than a year before he’s expected to seek re-election to a second term.
A report newly filed at the Federal Election Commission shows Welch — a first-term Democrat — raised more than $141,000 in the three months ending September 30th and spent about $26,000.
He received nearly $100,000 in contributions from individuals during the period, and $34,500 from political action committees.
University of Vermont political scientist Garrision Nelson says Welch is looking strong in the campaign finance department. He says the congressman’s success at raising money means he likely won’t have a primary opponent.
No Republican has stepped forward so far indicating a plan to run against Welch.