A major Republican push is underway with SLF reserving hundreds of millions to defend and expand the GOP Senate majority in 2026, targeting eight states including Ohio, North Carolina, Maine, Alaska, Iowa, Georgia, Michigan, and New Hampshire.

Ohio leads the spending with about $79 million allocated to defend Sen. Sherrod Brown’s seat against a high-profile Republican challenger, reflecting Ohio’s pivotal role in the map.

Iowa sees about $29 million in reservations as Republicans prepare for an open seat with Ashley Hinson likely the nominee after Joni Ernst’s retirement, with Democrats contesting in a primary between Wahls and Turek.

Maine remains a major battleground with $42 million allocated to defend Sen. Susan Collins amid prior spending by allies, highlighting Maine’s importance.

The Ohio allocation underscores a broader strategy to protect incumbents and potential flips in states Trump won, signaling a high-stakes battleground in a key swing state.

With Republicans holding 53 Senate seats, Democrats would need to net at least four seats to take the majority in 2027, making this a highly competitive map.

SLF’s executive director says the group is positioned for an aggressive offensive strategy to defend and expand the Republican majority, reflecting a proactive stance for 2026.

The omission of Texas from early reservations suggests a strategic focus on other battlegrounds where Democrats pose stronger threats, while leaving room for later decisions.

The ad buy expands beyond incumbents to include seats currently held by Republicans in Alaska and Iowa, signaling concern about headwinds in red-leaning states and potential GOP vulnerabilities.

Texas is notably omitted from the initial reservations, even as party concerns about a competitive GOP nomination fight linger and potentially affect its Senate race.

Michigan is a top target, with strong activity behind Mike Rogers in the open-seat race, indicating a concerted push in a traditionally solid Republican area.

In New Hampshire, the GOP’s front-runner is facing a primary challenge while Democrats look to Chris Pappas as the likely general election candidate.