Sporadic polling had left the GOP primary battle with little certainty as to an obvious frontrunner, though Deaton had the clear money lead among Republicans. For his primary run, Deaton was able to take in about $1.8 million in direct donations, including $1 million from his own pocket, according to the most recent public filings. Cain, who had been endorsed by noted crypto advocate Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), had trailed with about $400,000 in direct giving to his campaign.