Wat-Not Staff
With the 2024 election only days away, campaigns have launched a final advertising blitz. It has led to a spending close to $1 billion in just one week. According to data from AdImpact, this brings the total ad spending since early 2023 to an unprecedented $10.4 billion. Presidential and down-ballot races alike are seeing intense competition, with candidates, PACs, and advocacy groups seeking to sway voters in the final stretch.
This week’s spending shows the extraordinary impact of political advertising on the airwaves. A mix of federal, state, and local races has driven this surge, reflecting the high stakes involved. In some states, every ad break seems to feature political messages, from presidential candidates to ballot initiatives.
Presidential Ads Lead, But Down-Ballot Spending is Intense
The presidential race has seen the highest spending, with more than $272 million dedicated to ads in just the last week. Donald Trump’s campaign led in spending over Kamala Harris, but Democratic super PACs managed to narrow the gap by spending heavily on Harris’s behalf. Between October 27 and November 2, Trump’s campaign spent $43.4 million, while Harris’s spent $40.7 million.
While the presidential race draws significant attention, down-ballot races are major contributors to the spending surge. House, Senate, and state-level contests have collectively spent around $267 million in the last week. Some of the most heavily advertised issues will also be looked after. It includes Florida’s abortion rights referendum and marijuana legalisation initiative, which collectively spent over $37 million.
Beyond referendums, Senate races in Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania each saw over $30 million in ads this week, highlighting the intense fight for control of Congress. With more than $227 million spent on Senate races nationwide, these ads reflect critical battlegrounds in a divided Congress.
Congressional Races and Gubernatorial Contests Also Draw Heavy Spending
Congressional races are also shaping ad spending, with House contests in New York, California, and elsewhere receiving over $200 million in ad funding. New York’s 19th District leads in spending as Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro faces off against Democrat Josh Riley. Other key battlegrounds include California’s 45th District, with nearly $7.5 million spent, and the 27th District, which saw $7 million in ad investment.
While governors’ races are quieter this year, New Hampshire’s gubernatorial contest has been an exception. With $6.7 million spent on ads, the open seat race between Republican Kelly Ayotte and Democrat Joyce Craig is the most competitive gubernatorial contest this cycle. Ad spending in state races reflects each region’s specific issues, from housing to healthcare.
As Campaigns Make Their Final Push, Voter Engagement is Key
Campaign spending reflects the broader attempt to mobilise voters across critical issues. With more than $300 million in ad time booked from Sunday through Tuesday, the spending frenzy won’t slow until the polls close. Ad saturation, particularly in swing states and competitive districts, demonstrates both the high stakes and deep resources poured into these contests.
Campaigns are investing heavily in voter outreach, understanding that every last-minute message counts. From TV spots to social media ads, this final push in spending is intended to capture undecided voters and reinforce partisan support before Election Day.
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