NASHVILLE (AP) — Tennessee Democrats say the $500,000 netted from its Jackson Day fundraiser set a new record for the beleaguered party.

The event headlined by Kentucky U.S. Senate candidate Alison Lundergan Grimes was held at the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville on Saturday.

The party said its expenses to host the event are expected to come to about $25,000, meaning that 95 percent of the money raised can go toward elections.

Chairman Roy Herron said a 2009 fundraiser featuring former President Bill Clinton and former Vice President Al Gore brought in more contributions but also cost more to put on, meaning the party earned less from the event.

Tennessee Democrats have not won a statewide election since 2006 and are trying to stem heavy losses in the Legislature.