Broadcasters reaped big revenue this year from election spending, says a new survey. A record-breaking $2.1 billion was spent on political campaign spots this year, a more than $1 billion increase from the last midterm election in 2002, says data compiled by TNS Media Intelligence’s Campaign Media Analysis Group.
Most of the spending, 76 percent, occurred during the final 60 days leading up to Election Day; 52 percent of the total was spent in the last 30 days. Weekly spending increased from $204 million to $400 million during the last three weeks.
According to the most recent data, Democrats outspent Republicans by $20 million — a total $370 million to $350 million.