The race between Republican John Faso and Democrat Zephyr Teachout in New York’s 19th Congressional District has exceeded $8.5 million in spending, Federal Election Commission reports show. 

Outside spending from independent groups account for $5.87 million of that amount, the Poughkeepsie Journal reported. 

Both the National Republican Congressional Committee and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee are making media purchases this month, as well, the newspaper reported.

Teachout, a Fordham University associate law professor, has raised $3.26 million this election cycle through September while Faso, a former state assemblyman, raised $2.32 million over the same period. Teachout also has more cash available, with $1.47 million to $356,000 for Faso. 

Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders has endorsed Teachout for the seat left open by the retirement of three-term GOP Rep. Chris Gibson. Gibson, who has a reputation as a moderate Republican, has endorsed Faso. 

The Rothenberg & Gonzales Political Report/Roll Call rates the race a Tossup.