Hickenlooper widens fundraising lead on Beauprez

Colorado Democratic Gov. John Hickenlooper has widened his fundraising edge against Republican challenger Bob Beauprez despite recent public missteps that have fueled GOP attacks.

Figures released late Tuesday show Hickenlooper raised $545,791 – his largest monthly amount yet. Beauprez raised $223,510 for the reporting period spanning July 27 through August 27.

So far, Hickenlooper has raised $4 million, while Beauprez has raised $828,695. He’s lent himself another $527,000.

The latest figures come as the battle for television air time ramps up. The Republican Governors Association purchased $1.8 million for commercials criticizing Hickenlooper, including his decision to grant an indefinite stay of execution to Nathan Dunlap.

The Democratic Governors Association is reserving $3.3 million in television ads this fall for Hickenlooper, and Hickenlooper’s campaign will go on air next week.