House Dems set to spend $35 million on TV ads

updated 9:34 a.m. ET July 11, 2008

WASHINGTON - House Democrats have reserved millions of dollars worth of television advertising in 31 congressional races in all corners of the country, according to documentation that provides an early roadmap of the party's drive to strengthen its majority in the fall elections.

The list includes 19 seats currently in Republican hands, from Connecticut to Alaska, with two each in Ohio and New Mexico. It also reflects a determination on the part of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee to protect its own first-term incumbents in Kansas, New Hampshire, Florida and elsewhere.

In all, the material obtained by The Associated Press shows the DCCC has reserved nearly $35 million in advertising to begin in September and October.

While none of the money has been spent, political parties and candidates frequently reserve advertising time in advance to obtain a lower price from television stations than might be available later. Final decisions on spending are normally made closer to the elections.

MORE FROM CAPITOL HILL

Capitol Hill Section Front

GOP weekly address targets health strategy Lawmakers differ on Gitmo trial decision Sources: Reid eyes payroll tax rise on high earners Rep. Paul laments 'pseudo' Fed audit proposal Former congressman sentenced to 13 years Catholic bishops shape health care bill Injured vets sign on for duty in Congress Of bats and billions: Following stimulus funds As stimulus funds trickle down, debate heats up GOP lawmaker feels effects of health vote Capitol Hill Section Front   Add Capitol Hill headlines to your news reader: