Democrats are showing strong fundraising skills in key 2024 Congress races‚ leaving Republicans to play catch-up. In most competitive House and Senate contests Democrats are pulling in more cash‚ often doubling or tripling their GOP rivals hauls.
The financial reports filed on 10/15/24 to the Federal Election Commission show a clear pattern. In 25 out of 26 important House races Democrats raised more money in the third quarter. For Senate races‚ the story is similar – Democratic candidates outperformed Republicans in all 11 of the most contested battles.
This cash advantage is letting Democrats spend big. In 26 crucial House races‚ they used almost $92 million from July to September‚ which is more than twice what Republicans spent. Senate races saw an even bigger gap‚ with Democrats outspending Republicans by over 150 percent.
But money isnt everything in politics. Even with this edge‚ the fight for control of Congress is still very close. In the House‚ just four seats could change whoʼs in charge. The Senate is even tighter – Republicans only need to gain one seat to take over.
We have the resources to talk to voters and hold Republicans accountable for their positions
To fight back‚ Republicans are leaning on mega-rich donors. The Congressional Leadership Fund and Senate Leadership Fund (GOP super PACs) are getting huge checks from billionaires and casino owners. For example two hedge fund managers gave $30 million to the Senate fund.
However‚ not all political money is equal. Campaigns get better deals on TV ads than outside groups. So even if super PACs spend a lot‚ candidates own funds can buy more airtime. This means Democrats might still have an edge in getting their message out.
Republicans know they need to do better with fundraising. Rep Richard Hudson who leads the National Republican Congressional Committee‚ has been warning about this problem for a while. But for now‚ the party is relying on its big donors to stay competitive in the race for Congress