Will millions in super PAC spending crush grassroots momentum, or is a new era of campaign finance emerging?

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Millions in super PAC spending are not crushing grassroots momentum outright, but they are redefining campaigns into a hybrid era where money still matters enormously and organization can sometimes blunt it. The evidence points both ways. Outside spending is surging: the four main congressional super PACs and their affiliated dark-money groups raised $714.6 million through mid-2026, with nearly $197.7 million coming from opaque affiliates, according to Issue One. In marquee primaries, the spending has been extraordinary. In Michigan, groups backing Haley Stevens poured roughly $50 million into the Senate primary, including nearly $30 million from AIPAC-linked support, creating one of the biggest outside-spending gaps of the cycle. In New York, some House primaries drew millions from pro- and anti-regulation AI groups, pro-Israel committees, unions and business interests. Yet heavy spending has not guaranteed victory. Several progressive or DSA-backed candidates won despite being heavily outspent, including Darializa Avila Chevalier in New York. Organizers credit volunteer canvassing, labor backing, small donors and local enthusiasm. Political science research also supports that claim: face-to-face canvassing consistently lifts turnout more than mail, phones or digital outreach, especially among low-propensity voters. What is emerging is not a post-money system but a more polarized finance model. Candidates can build real momentum through small donors, social media reach and …

DSA Rise Reshapes 2026 Federal Races as November 3 Vote Becomes Choice Election

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DSA Rise Reshapes 2026 Federal Races as November 3 Vote Becomes Choice Election

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