Midterm elections: Were the billions spent worth it?

Yahoo ^ | Nov. 7, 2018 | Kristin Myers

[lasereye]

This year’s midterm elections are shaping up to be record-breaking for several reasons. More women have been elected to Congress than ever before, and voter turnout was at an all-time high. But it was also record-breaking for the sheer amount of money spent. The numbers are still being tallied, but according to the Center for Responsive Politics, we are on track for an election cost of more than $5 billion.

As the dust settles and the final votes roll in, many are asking: was it worth it?

The short answer is… it depends. Democrats spent $801 million to take back the House — a good bit more than the $547 million spent by Republicans, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. Currently, it is forecasted that Democrats will walk away with 229 House seats, a net gain of 34 seats.

Democrats spent the most trying to ensure a victory in the House. Considering all 435 seats were up for grabs, Democrats spent an average of $1.8 million dollars on each seat. But some races were more expensive than others.

In Maryland’s 6th district, Democrats spent more than $15 million to ensure a victory for David Trone. His opponent, Amie Hoebar, spent less than $1 million.

Further south, Abigail Spanberger was able to flip Virginia’s traditionally conservative 7th district over incumbent Republican Dave Brat. Her campaign shelled out $5.3 million, compared to Brat’s $1.8 million.

According to the Center for Responsive Politics, 89% of House races were won by the biggest spender – a pretty good record.

[mainerforglobalwarming]

Thank you

[lasereye]

See my post #40.