Political Ads Could Top $1 Billion This Year

While nothing short of a "political Armageddon" is on tap for next year, according to TNS Media Intelligence/CMAG President Evan Tracey, 2009 is turning out to be a hot year for political spending too. Between governor races in New Jersey and Virginia, candidates getting a headstart on advertising in next year's elections, and a long list of hot-button issues, political ads are making a stronger than expected showing in 2009. "We have issues," Tracey said of healthcare reform, Cap and Trade, and other divisive matters. "We have big issues."