Candidates running for statewide office in 2009 are sending a flurry of last-minute emails to supporters to raise the last bit of money before tonight's fundraising deadline.

Attorney General Robert F. McDonnell, the Republican nominee for governor, sent out an email with the subject line: "Only 24 hours left!"

"While our Republican team is united, the Democrats are waging a costly, contentious nomination battle,'' McDonnell wrote. "With your help , we have a great opportunity to build our organization and spread our message."

Sen. R. Creigh Deeds (D-Bath) and Del. Brian J. Moran (D-Alexandria) are running for the Democratic nomination. Terry McAuliffe, former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, is expected to announce Tuesday that he is running.

"Every single donation shows the strength of our organization and helps us build momentum,'' Deeds wrote in his email to supporters.

The six-month fundraising period ends tonight but candidates do not need to file their reports until Jan. 15.

McDonnell had $1.2 million in the bank, as of June 30. Moran had $924,292 and Deeds had $650,452. If McAuliffe runs for governor, he would likely be able to tap his personal funds and national fundraising network to raise millions of dollars quickly.

By Anita Kumar  |  December 31, 2008; 9:00 AM ET
Categories:  2009 Governor's Race , Anita Kumar , Brian J. Moran , Creigh Deeds , Robert F. McDonnell , Terry McAuliffe Share This:  E-Mail | Technorati | Del.icio.us | Digg | Stumble Previous: Republicans Target Democratic District
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