Big Number for TV Stations in 2008: 527

BIG NUMBER FOR TV STATIONS IN 2008: 527
Evan Tracey, COO of TNS Media Intelligence's Campaign Media Analysis Group, recently told broadcasting executives that 1) national presidential campaign spending could begin within just a few days after the Feb. 5 primaries; 2) ad spending by "527" groups could swamp that by federal candidates themselves; 3) all of the presidential candidates will remain in the race until Feb 5; 4) More money was spent on local elections in 2007 compared to 2003: Mayoral races were up $12 million, spending in other races increased $80 million; 5) expect even more money to be spent in local election this year and 6) Regardless of the outcome for any election this year, television will be a big winner. As campaigns raise more money, more of that money will end up being spent on advertising. According to Tracey, other campaign expenses, such as staff and campaign buttons, are typically fixed numbers in the budget. When more money is raised, it flows into advertising.
http://www.tvnewsday.com/articles/2007/11/16/daily.3/