Perdue's fundraising lags

That's less than Republican Pat McCrory's reported $1.5 million for the same period, and far short of the $1.9 million Perdue raised in the corresponding time period in the 2008 election cycle.

For the year, Perdue edged McCrory, raising $2.6 million to his $2.5 million.

Both campaigns are starting 2012 with a little over $2 million cash on hand. 

At this point in the last election cycle, Perdue had $4.6 million cash on hand. McCrory's numbers can't be compared to 2007 because his campaign wasn't opened until November of that year.

Perdue campaign chief Fiona Conroy used the announcement to blast the former Charlotte mayor.

"Pat McCrory has spent an entire year running around the state from fundraiser to fundraiser with GOP Speaker Thom Tillis and Senate President Phil Berger, being a full-time candidate (or “non-candidate”) for Governor," said Conroy.

"During the same period of time, Governor Perdue’s #1 priority has been being Governor. She has traveled the state, country and globe to attract jobs to North Carolina, successfully managed hurricane response and recovery efforts, and fought tirelessly to preserve public education. And yet, it still appears that she equaled or exceeded McCrory’s fundraising on the year."

McCrory campaign spokesman Brian Nick fired back.

"Governor Perdue's tenure has been repeatedly plagued by ethics scandals and a failed economic record. The fact that an unannounced candidate is running equal in fundraising to a sitting Governor more than demonstrates that people are already voting with their wallets and are ready to make Perdue a one term Governor," said Nick.

The campaigns are required to file detailed financial reports at the State Board of Elections by January 27th.