Haslam campaign raises $1 million raised since June 30

NASHVILLE -- Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam's Republican gubernatorial campaign announced Friday that he has raised another $1 million since his June 30 report.

That brings to $3.89 million the amount the mayor has raised so far for the 2010 GOP primary, the campaign stated in a news release. The campaign estimated that, since June 30, Mr. Haslam received another 2,151 contributions.

Haslam campaign officials did not respond immediately to requests for a list of contributors and how much cash the campaign now has on hand.

The campaign statement said Mr. Haslam "continues setting the record for contributions for this point in a Tennessee statewide campaign."

"These continue to be tough times for Tennesseans, and Crissy and I are extremely grateful and humbled by the support of so many," the mayor said in the statement. "And we truly appreciate the graciousness and hospitality we've received as we've traveled the state."

The campaign released the figures a day after GOP rival U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp's campaign announced three Middle Tennessee fundraisers featuring country music stars John Rich and Gretchen Wilson and Christian recording artists Nicole C. Mullen and Paul Colman.

Rep. Wamp, R-Tenn., raised more than $80,000 at a Tuesday night fundraiser in Chattanooga, according to a spokeswoman.

Spokeswoman Lindsey Meyer said the campaign was "well above $80,000, and checks are still coming in."

Rep. Wamp held a reception at the Hunter Museum of American Art to raise funds for his bid to be the GOP nominee for Tennessee governor. The event was hosted by Chattem CEO Zan Guerry and his wife, Julie.

Also running in the GOP primary for the governor's race are Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam; Lt. Gov. Ron Ramsey, R-Blountville; and Shelby County District Attorney Bill Gibbons.

Former state Rep. Kim McMillan, D-Clarksville; Nashville businessman Ward Cammack; Mike McWherter; state Sen. Roy Herron, D-Dresden; and state Sen. Jim Kyle, D-Memphis, are running on the Democratic side.