Don Gaetz Raising and Spending Serious Cash Despite Little Opposition

Sen. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, is slated to become president of the Florida Senate after November provided he wins another term and the Republicans keep control. The GOP is in solid shape to keep the Senate and Gaetz appears to be on track for staying in Tallahassee.

Gaetz raised more than $160,000 in the second quarter of 2012 and spent almost $272,000. Despite that heavy spending, Gaetz continues to have a healthy war chest. So far this campaign cycle, Gaetz has raised more than $632,000 and spent almost $354,000.

While he does not have any opposition in the Republican primary and will not face a Democrat in November, Gaetz does not have an open shot at a second term. Standing in Gaetzs way is tea party activist Richard Harrison who is running in November with no party affiliation. Harrison did not raise any money since entering the race at the end of May, loaned his campaign $2,000 and spent more than $1,600.