Kirk reports raising $1.6 million for Senate race

SPRINGFIELD -- Republican Mark Kirk says he raised $1.6 million over the past three months as he campaigns to win the Senate seat once held by President Barack Obama.

The five-term congressman said Monday this gives him $2.3 million in the bank for the February primary election.

Candidates don't file their formal fundraising reports until later this month.

In the Republican primary, Kirk faces several little-known candidates. They'll have a hard time coming close to his fundraising levels.

The Democratic candidates may have more fundraising strength.

David Hoffman, Chicago's former inspector general, says he raised $400,000 and gave his campaign a $500,000 loan. State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias declined to say how much he has raised.