The Congressional Leadership Fund (CLF), the leading outside group supporting House Republicans, has reported its highest fundraising quarter ever. The CLF, which is closely aligned with House Speaker Mike Johnson, raised a staggering $81.4 million during the third quarter of 2024 (July-September). This record-breaking sum surpasses their previous high of $77.4 million, achieved in the third quarter of 2020.
With just four weeks remaining before the November election, and the GOP aiming to secure and expand its fragile House majority, the CLF is also announcing a significant allocation of $11 million for new ad reservations. This strategic move demonstrates the group’s commitment to bolstering key races that will determine the outcome of the election.
“We continue to raise at levels that will allow us to be incredibly impactful this cycle. We’re invested deeply and continuing to add more strategically in the must-win races that will determine the Majority,” said CLF President Dan Conston in a statement.
The CLF’s fundraising success this year stands out, particularly considering the party’s recent leadership shake-up. Following the removal of former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, known for his fundraising prowess, expectations for a strong fundraising cycle for House Republicans were tempered. However, the CLF has defied these expectations, demonstrating a continued commitment to supporting the GOP’s campaign efforts.
The CLF’s funding is being strategically allocated to a mix of offensive and defensive House races. They are targeting three Democrat-held districts with the goal of flipping them: Colorado’s 8th Congressional District, New Mexico’s 2nd Congressional District, and Maine’s 2nd Congressional District. Additionally, the CLF is using some of the new reservations to counter Democratic spending in districts where they are playing defense, including New York 19, Wisconsin 03, and Arizona 06.
The GOP currently holds a slim 220-212 majority in the 435-member House, with two Democrat-held and one Republican-held seats remaining vacant. The CLF’s aggressive spending strategy indicates their confidence in maintaining this majority and potentially expanding their control of the House.
The CLF’s fundraising success and aggressive ad spending strategy highlight the intense battle for control of the House in the 2024 elections. With the stakes high and the campaign entering its final stages, the CLF is demonstrating its commitment to supporting House Republicans and ensuring their success in the upcoming election.
