1. Modern Campaigns

2. Campaign Costs
In 1980, both Presidential candidates spent $92 million combined
In 2016 Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton spent over $1 billion
Congressional campaign costs have doubled as well
Where does the money go?

3. Length of Election Cycles
In most countries candidates will campaign for a few weeks
In the U.S. our Presidential campaigns officially last 10 months but can be up to 2 years unofficially
Leads to increased staffing needs and escalating costs

4. Political Consultants
Highly paid professionals that assist candidates with their campaigns
Develop Media Strategies
Manage interactions with public – platform rollout
Develop advertisement strategies
Assist with fundraising

5. Social Media
Social media is a less expensive advertising platform but adds to costs when coupled with TV and radio
Allows candidates to interact directly with public
Provides an additional fundraising platform
Allows advertisers to target specific groups based on online behavior
Gained popularity during Barack Obama campaigns