McDonnell’s Crossover Appeal and Fundraising News

Sheila Johnson is a Democratic businesswoman voting for McDonnell. Wait, what?

In a new ad, the McDonnell campaign proudly displays her endorsement as a testament to Bob’s commitment to economic recovery and growth. Johnson asserts that McDonnell’s impressive business experience in the private sector can translate to new jobs for struggling Virginians. While endorsements are overrated, Johnson’s presence on the campaign trail could help McDonnell among Northern Virginia voters, especially young professionals and women working in the business management sector.

On a separate note, promising fundraising figures are out for the McDonnell campaign:

Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell raised $3.8 million in September and had $4.5 million in the bank going into the final month of the race. The campaign raised more in September than July and August combined. McDonnell had 6,440 unique donors. Of those, 4,819 were new contributors and 4,454 gave less than $100.

Some key contributors:

Republican National Committee: $400,000

Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal: $250,000

Former Massachusetts governor and 2008 Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney: $100,000

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich: $100,000

Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty: $75,000

If McDonnell wins, expect Gingrich, Jindal, Pawlenty and Romney, all potential 2012 Republican candidates, to call upon the Virginia governor to return the favor.

Yet, even with the national spotlight on the Virginia race, Sarah Palin is nowhere to be seen…