Outside Groups Invest Millions in Key Senate Races

Why it matters locally: The outcome of closely contested Senate races, influenced by significant outside spending, could impact the federal legislative agenda and thus affect federal funding and policies relevant to Maine's industries and economic development.

WASHINGTON D.C. – Outside political organizations are directing significant financial resources into a select number of Senate elections. These races, including the one in New Hampshire, could influence which party controls the U.S. Senate next year. Financial disclosures indicate that approximately $50 million has been spent in the New Hampshire Senate contest by groups operating independently of candidate campaigns. This spending highlights the focus of these organizations on races with the potential to shift the partisan composition of the Senate.