Republicans have allegedly spent $183 million attacking Democrats over transgender-related issues ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, according to reporting by the Associated Press via ABC News. Yes, that’s $183 million. And while Americans are busy worrying about grocery prices, gas and healthcare, Republicans seem to have another topic they really want everyone talking about.
According to an Associated Press report published October 28, the massive advertising campaign produced approximately 217,000 television spots nationwide through October 25. That’s already more than the $151 million Republicans spent on similar advertisements at the same point during the 2024 election cycle. Democrats, meanwhile, have spent around $11 million on transgender-related ads, mostly defending themselves against the attacks.
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Trans People Are Apparently the Campaign Talking Point
So, what exactly are Republicans telling voters?
Much of the advertising focuses on gender-affirming healthcare for minors, transgender women participating in women’s sports, and parental rights. Several ads accuse Democratic candidates of supporting taxpayer-funded gender-reassignment surgeries for children or policies that supposedly undermine parents.
Texas has received the biggest share of the spending, with approximately $58 million going toward transgender-related attacks in its Senate race. Republican-backed advertisements targeting Democrat James Talarico accuse him of supporting taxpayer-funded surgeries for minors. However, Talarico has publicly stated that he opposes gender-reassignment surgery for minors.
In Ohio, nearly $26 million has been spent on similar attacks against Democratic candidate Sherrod Brown. One advertisement features a person who underwent surgery as a minor and later detransitioned. Another accuses Brown of supporting surgeries for children. PolitiFact rated one of the advertisements false, while Brown’s campaign called the attacks a total lie, according to the AP.
But Are Voters Even Asking for This?
Here’s where things get interesting.
An October AP-NORC poll found that only 12% of registered voters considered transgender issues among the most important issues influencing their vote. Meanwhile, 85% identified the economy and 84% cited the cost of living as major priorities.
So, why spend so much money on something that isn’t even at the top of most voters’ lists?
Republican pollster Chris Wilson explained to the AP that the strategy isn’t necessarily about making transgender policies a priority. Instead, Republicans believe a candidate’s position on these issues can serve as a way for voters to judge their broader values and decision-making.
In other words, it’s not just about transgender rights. It’s about shaping how voters perceive Democrats.
Wilson also questioned whether the advertisements actually change minds or simply reinforce opinions people already have.
And that’s the million-dollar question. Well, make that $183 million.
With Election Day approaching, we’ll soon see whether this expensive campaign strategy actually resonates with voters.