Why Dems Aren't Sweating GOP's Cash Advantage | RealClearPolitics

RealClearPolitics

by Susan Milligan, The New Republic

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

While the national Democratic Party lags behind Republicans in fundraising, individual candidates are defying expectations by securing significant contributions from both large and small donors. Despite the GOP's substantial financial advantage, Democrats remain unfazed, thanks to the robust support from their base and a surge in grassroots donations. This dynamic shift highlights how political campaigns can adapt strategies to overcome financial disparities. The article points out that Democratic candidates have been particularly effective at mobilizing small donors, leveraging technology and grassroot organizing to generate substantial revenue. While the national party's war chest is relatively modest compared to the GOP, individual candidates' fundraising efforts have offset this deficit, ensuring they remain competitive in key races. This strategy reflects a broader trend where campaigns prioritize donor diversity and grassroots engagement to sustain momentum. This situation underscores the evolving landscape of political fundraising, where traditional metrics like party-wide contributions are no longer the sole indicator of electoral success. The ability of Democratic candidates to tap into a wide range of donors demonstrates that financial resources alone do not guarantee victory in modern elections. Instead, it's the combination of strategic fundraising and strong voter engagement that often tips the scales. For readers interested in politics, this insight is valuable as it challenges conventional wisdom about the importance of party-level funding. It also highlights the growing influence of candidate-driven campaigns and the role of grassroots movements in shaping election outcomes. As the 2026 elections approach, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for analyzing potential political shifts and voter behavior.

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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/20/2026