Imani Oakley, the Democratic challenger looking to unseat U.S. Rep. Donald Payne, Jr. (D-10) in next year’s congressional race, bested the incumbent by a 2-to-1 margin during third quarter fundraising, Federal Election Commission reports show.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“The people of New Jersey’s 10th District are ready for change. Our fundraising numbers show that voters are energized by our grassroots progressive campaign. I’m so proud
of our movement and what we were able to accomplish this quarter,” she said in a statement.
“Payne Jr. has spent a decade serving his corporate backers. Our communities have seen that and given their grassroots donations to the candidate who will actually fight for their interest.”
In her first filing since announcing her run for office this summer, Oakley reported raising $136,983.28 during the third quarter (April 1st and September 30th).
She received around 1,500 donations, with about 90 percent of which coming from individual donors – none coming from super PACs – with an average donation of $74. Additionally, Oakley has $62,709.26 cash on hand.
Of note, Jersey City Ward E Councilman James Solomon donated $500 to her campaign on June 29th.
Conversely, Payne raised $67,864 and about 76 percent of his donations came from PACs, with his historic average donation around $1,177. While he had a subpar quarter fundraising, he still has $238,093.93 cash on hand.
Payne’s office declined to comment.
The 10th Congressional District includes at least part of 18 different municipalities between Essex, Hudson, and Union Counties, including portions of Bayonne and Jersey City.
