Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) has raised $1.8 million for his reelection bid since January, his office announced Tuesday. That means he has raised nearly $12 million for 2014 and over $8.6 million on hand.

The haul is a reminder that, despite what polls might suggest, McConnell is far from an easy target. The Kentucky Republican is well-equipped for the kind of scorched-earth negative campaign that has served him well in the past. He's also on track to raise more than he did in 2008, when he raised $20 million and outspent Democrat Bruce Lunsford 10-to-one.

“Leader McConnell’s fundraising strength is second to none and is allowing us to build a tremendous organization with the best technology and the best people," campaign manager Jesse Benton said. "We will run a fantastic campaign that will make Kentucky proud.”

McConnell also raised $500,000 for the the Republican Party of Kentucky.

A Democrat has yet to enter the race against McConnell -- Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes is still undecided, although she has been taking some shots at McConnell. Actress Ashley Judd has bowed out.

FEC reports for the first quarter of the year are due Monday; we'll report on candidates' numbers as they trickle in.