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What ad spending reveals about the state of key Senate races

Political ad spending for the 2026 Midterm Elections has exceeded $10 billion, according to data compiled by media-tracking firm AdImpact. This record-breaking total could surpass spending in the 2024 presidential election season.
Republicans have directed $1.03 billion toward the ten most competitive Senate races, far exceeding Democrats' $710 million. Ohio's contest remains the most expensive, with combined spending reaching $467 million.
Open Secrets director of insights Brendan Glavin called spending in historically red states like Texas , Iowa , and Kansas 'very unusual.' Competitive contests in Michigan and Maine also drive costs.
In states where Democrats have widened their edge, Republicans have reduced spending; Georgia and North Carolina exemplify this shift. In North Carolina, where President Donald Trump campaigned Tuesday, Democrats plan to spend $14.4 million versus Republicans' $2.4 million.
Trump announced plans to spend over $400 million by Election Day, while the Trump-aligned Super PAC, MAGA Inc., remains a major source of GOP funding. These outside groups help Republicans maintain a cash advantage over Democratic candidates.

Insights by Ground AI