– Ahead of a possible primary challenge by Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, U.S. Rep. Jason Smith, R-Salem, reported raising more $250,000 in the third quarter of 2013.

The cash haul easily cleared Smith’s outstanding debts from June’s special election, and he ended the three month period between July 1 and September 30 with nearly $160,000 on hand in his campaign account.

“Congressman Smith had an outstanding fundraising quarter,” said Reg Swan, Smith’s campaign treasurer. “He has proven to be a hard worker and his campaign will have the resources it needs going forward to fend off any challenger.”

Kinder announced earlier this month that he was considering an entrance into the race. He was set to file an exploratory committee, but that was stalled when the government shutdown and closed the Federal Election Commission. Kinder is expected to make a final decision later this month.

Kinder’s team was unresponsive to requests for comment. The campaign has not filed with the FEC.