Army veteran and military equipment entrepreneur Tim D’Annunzio (R), who is hoping to earn the opportunity to take on Rep. Larry Kissell (D) in the Charlotte and Fayetteville-based 8th district, ended September with more than $260,000 in cash on hand, according to his filing with the Federal Election Commission.

After filing in mid-September D’Annunzio raised just $12,000 but chipped in $300,000 of his own money to boost his campaign.

D’Annunzio is facing former North Carolina state House nominee Lou Huddleston (R) in the 8th district primary.

Huddleston wasn’t the first choice of GOP officials in this competitive Charlotte-area district, but as more well-known candidates passed on the race, party operatives on Capitol Hill have warmed to the retired Army colonel and defense industry consultant.

After announcing in August, Huddleston is expected to file a six-figure fundraising report. Kissell reported more than $214,000 in cash on hand at the end of June.