Spending On Political Ads Estimated To Hit Record $11.4 Billion In 2016

Spending on political advertising will hit a record $11.4 billion in 2016, according to a forecast released Tuesday by research firm Borrell Associates. That is up 20% from the last presidential election year, 2012. While broadcast television will account for the bulk of political ad spending, Borrell forecasts that spending on digital ads will break the $1 billion level for the first time in 2016. Borrell also estimates the average presidential candidate will have to spend $120 million on advertising.