“Brother of Republican Challenger Funds Super PAC Attacking Tammy Baldwin”

The race for the U.S. Senate seat in Wisconsin is heating up as a super PAC funded by the brother of Republican candidate Eric Hovde has been spending big on digital ads attacking Democratic incumbent Tammy Baldwin. Steven Hovde, the brother of Eric Hovde and chair of Hovde Properties, donated $1 million to the Fix Washington Political Action Committee, which has spent over $220,000 on ads labeling Baldwin as a “career politician.”

This move by Steven Hovde is not new, as he previously donated to his brother’s Senate campaign in 2012. Under FEC rules, he is able to contribute unlimited funds to the super PAC supporting his brother’s campaign this time around. The Hovde campaign has stated that they have no control or insight into the actions of the independent group.

The digital ad attacking Baldwin has been circulating around Wisconsin and is specifically targeted towards men. This spending by the Fix Washington PAC complements Eric Hovde’s $8 million loan to his campaign, helping him narrow the fundraising gap with Baldwin. Despite concerns about coordination rules and the influence of major donors, experts say that nothing about the donation is illegal under current regulations.

The influx of money into the race highlights the impact of super PACs in American politics, following the Citizens United ruling in 2010. With unlimited spending capabilities, these outside groups can play a significant role in shaping election outcomes. As the race continues to unfold, the battle between Hovde and Baldwin is expected to intensify, with both candidates vying for the support of Wisconsin voters.