Political Campaign Updates and Developments

Ad Spending in the Midterms

The Washington Post’s data team explored political ad spending in the midterm elections. Republicans have consistently outspent Democrats in competitive Senate, House, and governor’s races since Labor Day. In the week of Oct. 23-29, AdImpact provided data on these expenditures. Earlier in October, the team analyzed $1.6 billion in campaign ads.

Ken Paxton’s Political Maneuverings Post-Impeachment

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s 2023 impeachment on bribery and corruption charges impacted his U.S. Senate race. At a rally, state Rep. Andy Hopper described the impeachment as a political attack against Paxton that exposed disloyal Republicans. Paxton, acquitted by the state Senate, retaliated against the House Republicans who moved to impeach him. This led to significant Republican primary changes, with several incumbents losing their seats.

Rally attendees supported Paxton despite the impeachment, citing his acquittal as evidence of his suitability. Steve Curtis, an attendee, emphasized Paxton’s long-term presence in Texas politics and perceived guiltlessness as reasons for his support.

Sen. Dan S. Sullivan’s X Account Suspension

The social media platform X briefly suspended Sen. Dan S. Sullivan’s official account for allegedly violating impersonation rules. The account, @DanSullivan_AK, was restored by Saturday. Sullivan’s Senate race features competition from Democrat Mary Peltola and independent candidate Dan J. Sullivan. Allegations arose that Peltola’s campaign recruited Dan J. Sullivan to split the vote, which both parties involved denied.

Republicans plan to investigate whether Democrats aimed to recruit spoiler candidates with these tactics.

South Carolina Data Center Debate

Tom Corbit’s concern with data center expansion plays a central role in his voting decision. Retired from managing smaller-scale data centers, Corbit opposes the construction of massive new centers without public input. Sen. Darline Graham supports data center expansion for economic competition, benefitting from substantial funding by a political action committee linked to the industry.

Corbit disagrees with Graham’s stance and plans to vote for opponent Annie Andrews, who advocates for a moratorium on data center construction until policies catch up with the industry’s growth.

Olivia Rodrigo Supports Amy Acton’s Candidacy

During a concert in Columbus, Olivia Rodrigo endorsed Amy Acton, Ohio’s Democratic gubernatorial candidate. Rodrigo’s advocacy includes her support for abortion rights and women’s health. At the concert, Rodrigo presented a bouquet to Acton and wore an “Amy Acton for Governor” T-shirt.

Acton recently drew national attention following a GOP opponent’s ad involving her estranged mother. The ad addresses sensitive family history, with Acton emphasizing her focus on public service over personal controversies.