From the HERE City National Desk
WASHINGTON — Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned Democratic colleagues Tuesday that an unprecedented wave of Republican outside spending could decide control of the Senate with about three weeks until Election Day.
In a Dear Colleague letter circulating Tuesday, Schumer asked whether Republicans can buy the Senate. He argued Democrats hold advantages in candidates, policies and political climate, but said Republicans have an enormous money edge.
Schumer said voter dissatisfaction with Republicans and a flood of GOP-aligned cash are on a collision course, and that which force prevails could determine the chamber. MAGA Inc. has more than $400 million available and plans to spend in key races including Iowa, Ohio and Alaska, according to Federal Election Commission filings cited in campaign coverage.
Tech billionaire Elon Musk has contributed roughly $276 million to Republican-aligned PACs this cycle, including about $158 million to the Senate Leadership Fund tied to Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Schumer said checks are coming from entities looking to buy a pardon, curry favor and advance personal interests.
The Senate Leadership Fund had $112 million more on hand than Senate Majority PAC at the end of the second quarter, while the Schumer-aligned Senate Majority PAC still raised a record $151 million in the third quarter. The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has also queued tens of millions in battleground ads.
An NRSC spokeswoman said Schumer pitch reflects Republican grassroots enthusiasm and pointed to Democratic fundraising and brand troubles. Schumer closed by saying he believes Democrats will prevail but cannot take anything for granted before Nov. 3.
