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2016 ElectionsBlogReleases

WMP/CRP Special Report
Outside Group Activity, 2000-2016

Image: OpenSecrets Super PACs dominate 2016; “Dark Money” a consistent but growing presence since 2000; Outside Groups at all-time high in share of ads aired; most groups active in only one election cycle August 24, 2016 (MIDDLETOWN, CT) August 24, 2016 – A new historical analysis of political advertising data by the Wesleyan Media Project, in partnership with the Center for Responsive Politics, reveals several important findings about the involvement of outside groups in elections over the past decade and a half.  In particular, the report provides an in-depth assessment of outside group advertising (2.4 million airings) over time, examining trends…
Wesleyan Media Project
August 24, 2016
2016 ElectionsReleases

Advertising Volume Up 122% Over 2012 Levels;
Spending in Presidential Race Over $400 million

Presidential Advertising Largely Positive; Dark Money Flooding Senate Contests May 12, 2016 Report Highlights • Advertising volume compared to 2008 and 2012 • GOP pres. candidates relying more on outside groups • Top outside group sponsors • Milwaukee, Hartford, Indianapolis saw most ads since March 15 • Super PACs pay for over 90% of GOP outside group ads • Candidate ads overwhelmingly positive • Issues featured in ads • Hottest Senate races are in PA, MD and AL • Senate Races: Top outside group sponsors • Senate Races: Dark money groups more active (MIDDLETOWN, CT) May 12, 2016 - Although…
Wesleyan Media Project
May 12, 2016
2016 ElectionsReleases

Clinton and Sanders Even in Ad War,
Cruz and Rubio Gain on Bush in S. Carolina

Outside Group Ads Continue to Flood Airwaves in Record Numbers, Republican Ads Attack Rubio, Rubio Attacks Clinton February 18, 2016 Report Highlights • Clinton, Sanders, Bush most ads this cycle • South Carolina ad leaders • Nevada ad leaders • GOP ad spending nearly triples from 2012 • Comparing GOP and Dem ad volume and spending • Outside group sponsors in GOP race • GOP outside group types • Ad tone in GOP and Dem races • Attacks on other candidates • Issues featured in ads • Dark money in Senate races • Senate advertising volume (MIDDLETOWN, CT) February 18,…
Wesleyan Media Project
February 18, 2016