To the Spoils, Go the Victories

2012

Candidates who spent the most won 94 percent of House races and 79 percent of Senate races.

2010

In 85 percent of House races and 83 percent of Senate races, the candidate who spent the most money ended up winning.

2008

“In 93 percent of House of Representatives races and 94 percent of Senate races... the candidate who spent the most money ended up winning.”

2006

“In 93 percent of House of Representatives races and 67 percent of Senate races... the candidate who spent the most money won.”

2004

“In 95 percent of House races and 91 percent of Senate races... the candidate who spent the most money won.”

2002

“Just over 95 percent of U.S. House races and 75 percent of Senate races were won by the candidate who spent the most money.“

2000

“The candidate who spent the most money won 98 percent of the elections for positions in the House of Representatives. In the Senate the percentage was 85 percent.”

1998

“In 94 percent of Senate races and 95 percent of House races, the candidate who spent the most money won.”

1996

“92 percent of House races and 88 percent of Senate races were won by the candidate who spent the most on the election.”