Berman Outraises Sherman in First Quarter, But Trails in Cash on Hand

Rep. Howard Berman (D-Calif.) raised $572,897 in the first quarter, outpacing his rival Brad Sherman (D-Calif.) in the race for a San Fernando Valley congressional seat.

Sherman raised $202,065, according to reports filed with the Federal Election Commission.

Their race is one of the most contentious primary battles this year.

Sherman still has a whopping $4.1 million cash on hand, while Berman has $2.5 million.

Tonight Berman raised money at the Holmby Hills home of Sharon Nazarian, in an event themed around Berman's human rights record. Among the activists who were expected were John Prendergast, co-founder of the Enough Project, as well as actors Don Cheadle, Julia Ormond and Ewan McGregor, Max and Vicki Kennedy, attorney Robert Offer and Bobby Shriver. Cohosts include Casey and Laura Wasserman, Rica and Jonathan Orszag, Jamie Lynton, Kelly Meyer and Janice Kamenir Reznik.

Both sides have been touting their endorsements. Studio and music industry money has largely gone to Berman, but Sherman has emphasized his support among local officials in San Fernando Valley, and his website features prominently words of praise from former President Bill Clinton.