The Federal Communications Commission's release of consumer complaint data is a step in the right direction, but it falls far short of the transparency and accountability full disclosure would bring.
Continue readingMicro-targeting is America’s latest political export
As seen in this year's U.K. elections, data mining and micro-targeting are catching on. Here's why that might be troublesome for transparency advocates.
Continue readingTwo months, $15 million in political ads on Philly TV
That's what it cost to blast Philadelphians with 14,000 ads. The kicker? It was state candidates doing most of the spending.
Continue readingOutside groups spend at least $120 per Alaska voter
Voters in states with competitive races are being overloaded with advertising from outside interests trying to influence their vote. In red-hot Alaska, outsiders have spent at least $120 for each likely voter.
Continue readingThe FCC’s opportunity to bring all political ad spending online
If the FCC decides to require cable, satellite and radio companies to put their files online, we may have an unprecedented view into political spending across all major media platforms.
Continue readingFrom the Piedmont to the Rockies, outside money swamping candidates
A Sunlight analysis of ad buys in sample TV markets show outside groups outspending Senate candidates in three key races.
Continue readingPhilly Ad Sleuthing: Republicans are gamers; Democrats like gossip
An analysis of political ad buys at one Philadelphia station shows just how much voters are bombarded by political messages -- and how much office seekers and interest groups spend to influence them.
Continue readingWho’s buying ads on Spanish-language TV — and who’s not
While much slower to lock down air time than they have been at English-language stations, political committees -- especially those allied with Democrats -- are beginning to buy ads aimed at Spanish speakers.
Continue readingMucho dinero for broadcast ads in Arizona and Colorado; nada at Spanish-language stations
Since the beginning of July, groups have bought millions of dollars worth of TV air time in Arizona and Colorado, but not one dime has gone towards ad time at Spanish language stations.
Continue readingGrab your ear plugs: Political advertisers have buys all the way through Nov. 4
New filings in competitive Senate races — in states that did not previously share their political ad documents online — reveal which markets third party groups are targeting
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