Whitman Sets US Record for Donations to Own Campaign: $119 million

Republican Meg Whitman continues to put her money where her mouth is in her quest to become California’s next governor — to the extent that her latest $15 million check set a U.S. record for candidates donating to their own campaigns. Whitman, who is running against Democrat Jerry Brown and gained the endorsement of former first lady Nancy Reagan this week, now has chipped in $119 million to her quest to lead the Golden State, according to a story in the Los Angeles Times.

The former eBay chief’s most recent donation eclipsed the record of Michael Bloomberg, who spent $109 million on his bid for re-election in 2009. Of course, he was running only for mayor. Of New York City.

The billionaire offered a simple explanation for her largesse: "It takes a lot of money to be competitive in California." She pointed out that the primary campaign had been very competitive and unions have tossed millions Brown’s way.

It comes as no surprise that state Attorney General Brown dissed his opponent, saying, "She's now the biggest spender in the history of the American republic, and I'm hoping the people will look behind the money to decide for themselves who can better lead our state in the coming years.”