"Fueling the growth in political ads this cycle is the presidential race, which has so far seen record primary spend on the Republican side.
More than $100 million was spent through September on Republican primary races, faster than any previous cycle, per political AdImpact, an advertising intelligence firm."
But only as a means to keeping/retaining their own power and campaign contributions. If the people could outspend monied interests more conveniently most would probably be out on the streets a lot more shaking hands and kissing babies.
So you would rather your politicians spend 16 billion on ads and campaigning bullshit than pay for school supplies, educating people, fixing infrastructure, building better internet, feeding and getting homeless people back on their feet. Ya know what politicians should be spending money on you brain dead imbicel.