VIENNA, Va. (Legal Newsline) - The Democrat in Virginia's Attorney General's race said Tuesday that his money is piling up even quicker than his Republican counterparts'.

Del. Steve Shannon said he has raised more than $500,000 for his campaign, still officially unofficial. Shannon has not formally announced his candidacy for the 2009 election, but says things are going well so far.

"During my travels across the Commonwealth, I have been extremely pleased and humbled by the deep level of support and encouragement from my fellow Virginians," said Shannon, a former Fairfax County prosecutor.

"My issues are their issues: Protecting our kids, protecting consumers from fraud and identity theft, and protecting our communities from gangs and violent crime.

Campaign finance disclosure reports for the first half of 2008 were due Wednesday. Republicans Ken Cuccinelli, a state Senator, and John Brownlee, a former U.S. Attorney, both reported more than $100,000 in their war chests.

Current Attorney General Bob McDonnell is planning a run for Governor in 2009. Shannon says he has more than $448,000 in the bank already.

"Because of the early support of so many of my fellow citizens, we have the necessary resources to promote my vision for Virginia in every region of the Commonwealth," Shannon said.

From Legal Newsline: Reach John O'Brien by e-mail at john@legalnewsline.com.