Republicans reserve $888 million for 39 once-safe House races

Republican groups reserved $888 million in advertising for the coming weeks versus Democrats' $666 million, per AdImpact. Since Sept. 1, GOP groups and megadonors began spending in at least 39 House races not previously funded this cycle. Republican-leaning super PACs spent about $309.7 million since Labor Day versus $174.2 million for Democrats. Republicans hold a 218-214 majority; Democrats need four seats for control on Nov. 3. House leaders privately warned campaigns internal polling shows they cannot assume victory even in districts with public leads. New first-time spending hit Wisconsin Rep. Bryan Steil ($1.5 million), North Carolina Rep. Gregory Murphy ($131,107), and Texas Rep. Monica De La Cruz (about $2 million); Cook moved De La Cruz from lean Republican to tossup. RNC's Natalie Baldassarre said Republicans are deploying a massive war chest and not taking races for granted. Strategist Ron Bonjean said they are playing defense in strongholds. NRCC's Mike Marinella said Republicans have air superiority. Viet Shelton said Republicans are running scared and trying a Hail Mary to spend their way out of defeat.