April 21, 2009

SAN JOSE – Republican candidate Meg Whitman today announced that her gubernatorial exploratory committee is on track to raise a minimum of $5 million by June 30, less than five months since launching her campaign. 

She made the announcement April 21, 2009 during a closed strategy session with 120 members of her statewide fundraising and political team.  Additionally, Meg has invested $4 million of her own funds to date, for a combined total of at least $9 million by the reporting deadline.  Of California’s GOP candidates, she has been in the race for the shortest period of time, yet is projected to surpass all fundraising totals by the first reporting deadline, demonstrating unmatched political strength and momentum. 

Ultimately, Meg has quickly established herself as one of America’s strongest GOP fundraisers and political organizers.  

“I’m honored that people are investing in the cause to create A New California,” Whitman said.  “We’re pleased with the progress of the campaign to date, but much remains to be done as we seek to engage Californians in a bold effort to lower taxes, fix the state budget, streamline government, and create two million jobs by 2015.”

Since announcing the formation of her gubernatorial exploratory committee on February 9, Meg has articulated her vision for California, amassed significant and prominent endorsements, travelled the state to attend grass roots events and is building the infrastructure needed to win the primary and general election campaigns. 

To restore California’s economy, Whitman set a goal of creating 2 million new jobs by 2015 and improving the effectiveness of state government by achieving at least $15 billion in savings and efficiencies within four years.  She has been also been the leading voice against state tax increases and runaway government spending, including strong opposition to Propositions 1A, 1B and 1C, which appear on the May 19^th Special Election ballot.

“Meg and her campaign have achieved extraordinary success in the short time she’s been in the race,” Whitman Campaign Chairman and former Governor Pete Wilson said.  “Her ability to raise money, earn endorsements and deliver a clear and powerful message is indicative of her ability to lead California.  Meg is perfectly positioned not just to get elected but to govern California back to prosperity.”

Joining Governor Wilson as Exploratory Committee Co-Chairs are House Chief Deputy Republican Whip Congressman Kevin McCarthy, Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack, Assistant State Senate Republican Leader Tony Strickland, Assembly Republican Whip Nathan Fletcher and former State Assemblywoman Sharon Runner.  Meg’s Finance Co-Chairs include Yahoo CEO Carol Bartz, Chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems John Chambers, Jenny Craig Weight Loss Systems Founder Jenny Craig, Montna Farms Chairman Al Montna and Sun Microsystems Chairman Scott McNealy.  Manus & Associates Literary Agency Partner Jillian Manus is the Chair of Meg’s Women’s Coalition.