WASHINGTON, July 10 (UPI) -- Despite the high profile of the grassroots Tea Party movement, analysts say the November elections will be the most expensive midterms in U.S. history.
The Hill said more than $1 billion has already been spent on congressional campaigns and additional big bucks are being poured into gubernatorial races across the country.
"We fully expect this will be the most expensive midterm election ever in U.S. history," said Dave Levinthal, a spokesman for the Center for Responsive Politics. "Not only do we expect it to exceed the high water mark set in 2006, but this could very well obliterate that number when all is said and done."
The Hill said spending by special interest groups has been ramped up due to the Obama administration's legislative agenda, which is being vilified as anti-business and particularly effects the well-heeled healthcare and financial sectors.
The Democrats will be countering with the assistance of spending planned by labor unions and various women's groups supporting women and pro-abortion candidates.
