Scotch Plains, N.J. – The two millionaires vying to be New Jersey’s next governor have used a combined $45 million of their personal fortunes for their campaigns, making it the most expensive gubernatorial race in state history.
Democrat Jon Corzine, the former chief executive of Goldman Sachs, spent nearly $4 million of his own money during the primary race, and he was unopposed. For the general election, Corzine has spent $19.5 million of his own wealth, according to the state Election Law Enforcement Commission.
Doug Forrester, the Republican co-owner of BeneCard Services Inc., a prescription drug company, spent $11.2 million in his primary race against six opponents. For the general election, he has lent himself $10.5 million.
Both candidates have said they were willing to spend much of their own fortunes on their campaigns but are still collecting individual donations as well as contributions from their respective state and national party organizations.
The race has tightened, with Forrester gaining ground on Corzine, according to the most recent poll.
