DSCC sets off-year October record

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee raised $4.8 million in October, setting a record for a non-election year for the committee.

The DSCC outraised the National Republican Senatorial Committee, which brought in $3.8 million. That was a big jump for the NRSC — its best fundraising month this year — but not enough to catch up to its Democratic counterparts.

{mosads}The DSCC now has $11.1 million in the bank for the 2014 elections, with $6.2 million in debt, down from $7.5 million a month ago. The NRSC has more than $5 million in the bank and no debt.

The fundraising period covered a tumultuous month. Democrats were boosted by the GOP-triggered government shutdown, while ObamaCare’s disastrous rollout has energized Republicans. Both parties’ approval numbers are in the toilet, according to recent polling.

The DSCC is fighting to hang onto control of the Senate and is defending a number of seats in red states. Republicans need to pick up six seats net to win control.

“The Republican brand has been permanently damaged and poll numbers show support for their reckless agenda is at an all time low,” DSCC Executive Director Guy Cecil said in a statement. “We are grateful for our supporters who continue to allow us to do the important work of protecting a Democratic majority in the Senate.”

The NRSC pointed out its big haul came in spite of the shutdown. Anger over ObamaCare has become more pronounced in recent weeks. 

“October was our strongest fundraising month to date — in spite of the government shutdown,” said NRSC spokesman Brad Dayspring. “Republicans have put together one of the strongest, most competent recruiting classes in recent memory and we are well positioned to capture the Senate majority in 2014. Further, the NRSC’s fiscal position remains healthier than the DSCC’s.”