In the last 12 days outside groups have spent $2.2 million on television advertising on the race in the 7th district between Democrat Abigail Spanberger and incumbent Republican Dave Brat. That is far more than was spent in the highly competitive 10th district where outside groups spent $1.4 million during the same time period.
In 2016 Congressman Brat won re-election by 15 points. This year will be closer but most believe Brat will win despite lack of support from some establishment Republicans who would like to regain the seat in two years with a less conservative Republican. Of course that never works, if Republicans lose a seat it is likely to be lost in subsequent elections.
Outside money in the 7th district favors the Congressman, spending a third more than outside groups for his opponent.
However, overall spending on ads heavily favors Spanberger. Details here.
From the Washington Post:
The independent groups hoping to boost Brat are: House Freedom Fund, which has spent $457,309; the Congressional Leadership Fund ($385,407); Heritage Action for America ($243,188); Americans for Prosperity ($122,116); Hometown Freedom Action Network ($40,000); and FreedomWorks for America ($20,000).
The spenders on Spanberger’s side are: House Majority PAC ($432,265); League of Conservation Voters ($326,848); NARAL Pro-Choice America ($171,500); Priorities USA Action ($14,161); and Progressive Turnout Project ($13,721).
More details on outside spending in various districts here.
