The 2024 election campaign in the USA became a true financial sensation, setting a record for expenses. The total budget of the campaigns of the Republican and Democratic Party candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, exceeded 4.2 billion dollars. This made the elections the most expensive in the country’s history, surpassing previous campaigns in terms of funds raised and spent.
Democrats’ record fundraising: over $2.3 billion for the campaign
In terms of finances, the Democrats had a certain advantage. They managed to raise more funds than their opponents – over 2.3 billion dollars, of which they spent 1.9 billion. Efforts were focused on key areas that had a significant impact on public opinion. A significant portion of the budget was spent on media and advertising. Special attention was given to the seven “swing” states, where the voting results often determine the outcome of the elections in the USA.
Republicans and their financial expenditures: where the money went
The Republican Party, although it raised slightly less money – about 1.8 billion dollars, invested it in the same strategic directions. Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, spent over 1.6 billion dollars on his campaign. He also directed significant amounts to media campaigns in the “swing” states. However, one of the important aspects of Trump’s financial expenditures was legal expenses: over 100 million dollars – 14% of all campaign expenses – went specifically to his legal matters.
Main expenditure directions: media and advertising
The key expenditures of both parties were in media and advertising. The campaign teams understood the importance of social media, television channels, and digital platforms for influencing public opinion. Therefore, significant budgets were directed towards advertising campaigns in the media space. The main portion of these funds was spent on propaganda in the seven “swing” states, such as Pennsylvania, where voters’ voices can drastically alter the election results.
Key States and the Crucial Role of Pennsylvania
As of 77% of the votes counted in Pennsylvania, Trump led with over 51% of voter support. Approximately 48% voted for Harris, indicating an extremely close race. The outcome in this state is pivotal for the candidates as winning Pennsylvania will award the victor 19 electors, bringing them closer to the required 270 for victory.
Political Reaction and Public Attention
The scandal surrounding massive financial investments in the campaign has sparked lively discussions among political analysts and the public. Politicians and experts have begun to question the feasibility and ethics of such substantial financial expenditures. Media coverage of the campaign and discussions about its expenses add intensity to these elections, and the public is keenly following the vote count results and the candidates’ subsequent actions.
