Republicans Expand Spending to 39 House Races

Republican groups and major donors have begun spending in at least 39 U.S. House races where they had not previously invested during this election cycle, expanding the party’s defense into districts once considered safe. The new spending began September 1, according to a review of campaign expenditures, as Republicans prepare for the November 3 midterm elections. Party operatives have cited internal polling as a reason to protect more seats, but the polling results were not provided. Many of the districts receiving support remain Republican-leaning or were carried by Donald Trump in 2024. Republican officials describe the investment as insurance, while Democrats say it signals that Republicans see greater electoral risk. Neither interpretation establishes how the races will turn out. The spending comes as Republicans hold a narrow House majority. Republican groups have reserved at least $888 million in advertising for the campaign’s remaining stretch, compared with at least $666 million reserved by Democrats, according to AdImpact figures. Those amounts are planned advertising commitments and do not show how much has ultimately been spent.