Sen. David Vitter (R-La.), who Democrats have been keen on targeting for defeat in 2010, announced Tuesday that he raised more than $1.2 million for his re-election campaign during the second quarter.

That haul gave Vitter more than $3.2 million in cash on hand as of June 30.

Six months into the 2010 cycle Vitter — who is two years removed from having his name splashed across the front page of major newspapers for his connection to the “D.C. Madam— prostitution scandal — has so far been successful in avoiding a serious primary challenge. But Democrats may have finally recruited a top-tier challenger to run against the first-term Senator as it was revealed last month that Rep. Charlie Melancon (D) is seriously considering the race.

“I’m grateful for this tremendous show of support from folks across Louisiana who support my fight to hold President Obama and his reckless-spending, liberal allies in Congress accountable,— Vitter said in a statement about his fundraising total this afternoon. “I will continue to work tirelessly as a critical voice in the Senate against Washington’s huge increases in spending and debt, and the efforts to take over banks, insurance companies, car companies and now health care.—