Fundraising plays a central role in many presidential campaigns, and is a key factor[1] (others include endorsements/messaging/visits/staffers)[2] in determining the viability of candidates.
Under United States law, officially declared candidates are required to file campaign finance details with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) at the end of every calendar month or quarter.
[4] Candidates not currently holding elected office, including Martin O'Malley,[5] Jeb Bush,[6] Scott Walker,[5] and Rick Santorum[5] made their official campaign announcements relatively later than is usual in presidential elections, instead concentrating on their fundraising vehicles, which can collect unlimited sums.
[8] Also as of July 2015, candidates for the Republican Party who have already raised at least $10 million include Jeb Bush, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Rick Perry, Rand Paul,[9] John Kasich, Chris Christie, and Ben Carson.
As of July 19, affiliated entities of the campaigns for Ben Carson, Martin O'Malley, and Rand Paul are still pending.