Cory Booker clears self-imposed fundraising goal to continue 2020 election campaign

Sen. Cory Booker said Monday his campaign has crossed its self-imposed existential $1.7 million fundraising goal, keeping him in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination.

Why it matters: Booker said on Twitter meeting the goal can keep him competitive in the race and provide a "viable path forward." His campaign manager had warned the campaign would have no legitimate avenue if it did not meet the threshold.

Background: Booker's campaign manager said on Sept. 21 the candidate needed to raise $1.7 million in the final 10 days of the fundraising period to "determine whether Cory Booker can stay in this race."

• The candidate polled at 0% in a Quinnipiac poll conducted on Sept. 19–23.

What's next: Booker has yet to qualify for the Democratic National Committee's November debate.

• The candidate has reached the threshold of 165,000 unique donors to qualify.
• But he has not qualified in terms of polling. Candidates need 3% support in at least four national or early state polls, or 5% support in two single-state polls, to take the stage.