House GOP Allocates $46 Million in Fall Advertising Push

The House Republicans’ campaign arm has committed nearly $46 million in advertising this fall, aiming to expand their narrow majority achieved in the midterms. This strategic move targets 22 districts across 29 media markets, primarily focusing on seats held by Democrats.

Key Details:

• Targeted Districts: Thirteen of the targeted districts are currently held by Democrats, signaling a strong offensive approach. Significant spending is directed towards districts that former President Donald Trump won in 2020.
• Democratic Targets: Key Democratic representatives in the GOP’s crosshairs include Reps. Jared Golden (ME), Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA), Mary Peltola (AK), Marcy Kaptur (OH), and Matt Cartwright (PA).
• Open Seats: The GOP is also focusing on open seats in Michigan held by Reps. Dan Kildee and Elissa Slotkin.
• Vulnerable Incumbents: Republicans are looking to defend seats in key states like New York and California, where incumbents such as Reps. Mike Garcia (CA) and Anthony D’Esposito (NY) are facing strong challenges.

Strategic Spending:

• Media Markets: Major reservations include $6 million in the Portland, Oregon market and significant buys in Los Angeles ($2.5 million) and New York City ($2.2 million).
• Defense and Offense: The GOP aims to protect vulnerable incumbents like Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR) while also playing offense in districts that President Biden won handily, such as Hartford, Connecticut.

Political Landscape:

• Smaller Competitive Field: The post-2020 redistricting has reduced the number of competitive districts, making each race crucial for control of the House.
• Comparative Spending: The National Republican Congressional Committee’s (NRCC) initial reservation of $46 million surpasses the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s (DCCC) $28 million buy. However, overall spending will evolve as Election Day approaches.

Additional Insights:

• The Congressional Leadership Fund (CLF), a super PAC allied with Speaker Mike Johnson, has already committed $141 million. In some districts, the NRCC’s buys will complement those by CLF, while in others, the committee will provide the primary outside support.

This significant investment underscores the high stakes of the upcoming elections, with both parties gearing up for a fiercely competitive battle over the House majority.