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Political Advertising for Ohio, Texas Senate Races Accounts for 47% of All Senate Spending

Garrett Searight
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Political Advertising for Ohio, Texas Senate Races Accounts for 47% of All Senate Spending

Republicans are dominating political advertising spending across key Senate races ahead of the 2026 Midterm Elections. AdImpact data shows GOP candidates have accounted for 60% of advertising expenditures through September 30th.

What We Know: Nine of the most competitive Senate races have generated $935 million in aired advertising through September 30th, according to AdImpact.

The contests in Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, and Texas account for that total. Republicans have outspent Democrats in eight of the nine races, reversing a pattern that held across the previous three election cycles.

What The Numbers Show: Republicans have spent 60% of the money invested in the nine battleground races, while Democrats account for the remaining 40%. In contrast, Democrats represented 54% of spending in both 2020 and 2024, along with 53% in 2022. Ohio and Texas alone account for 47% of the $935 million spent this cycle.

Additionally, Republicans have established spending advantages of at least $12 million in six races, including a $61 million lead in Texas and a $41 million advantage in Ohio.

What Remains Unclear: The spending figures don’t establish whether Republicans will translate their financial advantage into victories on Election Day. The remaining weeks of the campaign could also shift the balance as candidates and outside groups adjust their advertising strategies.

What It Means: The Republican spending advantage marks a significant change from recent election cycles, when Democrats dominated battleground Senate advertising. With GOP candidates leading in eight races, the financial disparity could help Republicans control the messaging in several closely watched contests. However, spending alone won’t determine the outcome of the 2026 Midterm Elections.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show Added to AM 1100 The Flag

Garrett Searight
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The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show Added to AM 1100 The Flag

AM 1100 The Flag has added The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show to its daily lineup. The Fargo-based station will bring Clay Travis and Buck Sexton to listeners across the region.

What We Know: The addition expands Flag Family Media’s conservative talk programming across North Dakota, South Dakota, and western Minnesota. Broadcasting from Fargo AM 1100 The Flag operates a 50,000-watt signal serving listeners across the region. The station will pair the nationally syndicated program with its existing local talk lineup. The move also gives the show another affiliate in a competitive talk radio market ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

What They Said: “Clay Travis and Buck Sexton are proven winners, and we are thrilled to welcome their show to our Flag Family team … The combination of our proven local talk programming and Clay and Buck will be unbeatable. Our P1s crave insight and informed opinion on every angle of this consequential election, and nobody delivers that better than Clay Travis and Buck Sexton.” -Flag Family Media co-owner Scott Hennen

“Buck and I have very different backgrounds, but we work well together since we share three key things: we’re smart, fun, and sane. Sounds simple enough, but you’d be surprised how lacking that is out there! Listening to us is guaranteed learning, laughing, and sanity-restoring. Happy to bring it to Fargo!” -Clay Travis

“We’re a couple of guys who also happen to be dads that you could hang out with at a BBQ. We’re huge patriots, love our families, and make laughter part of the program every day. We couldn’t be happier and more humbled to add Fargo as an affiliate.” -Buck Sexton

What Remains Unclear: The show will replace a re-air of Hennen’s midday show in the lineup. It is unclear if any other changes will take shape in the daily offerings.

What It Means: The addition strengthens Flag Family Media’s conservative talk lineup. It also marks another expansion for Travis and Sexton’s reach into the Upper Midwest. The partnership positions the station to offer listeners nationally syndicated political commentary alongside local programming.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Former CBS News Radio Staffers Accept Final Edward R. Murrow Award Victory

Garrett Searight
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Former CBS News Radio Staffers Accept Final Edward R. Murrow Award Victory

Former CBS News Radio staffers accepted two Edward R. Murrow Awards on Monday evening. The honors recognize the network’s journalism months after its shutdown following nearly 100 years of operation.

What We Know: Twenty-five former CBS News Radio employees took the stage at the Edward R. Murrow Awards Gala to accept the Overall Excellence Award in the Network Radio category from RTDNA. Some held signs reading “Fired for Overall Excellence,” highlighting the contrast between the network’s industry recognition and its closure earlier this year.

Among those accepting the honor were former Operations Manager Dustin Gervais, former Affiliate Sales Manager Amy Bolton, former Executive Editor and unit manager Jennifer Brown, former Executive Editor Tara Lipinsky, and former Vice President and General Manager Craig Swagler, now CEO of Baltimore Public Media. They joined writers, producers, anchors, reporters, contributors, and other colleagues whose work informed audiences across America.

Additionally, CBS News Radio won Best Newscast for its World News Roundup broadcast.

What’s at Stake: The recognition highlights the contributions of journalists and production staff who maintained CBS News Radio’s reporting operation until its closure. Their appearance also drew attention to the loss of a longstanding source of national news coverage.

What Remains Unclear: CBS News hasn’t indicated whether it plans to preserve any part of the radio operation’s legacy beyond its existing programming and archival material.

What It Means: The awards offer a final industry distinction for CBS News Radio and its former employees. Their acceptance also serves as a public reminder that the network’s journalism earned recognition even as its operation came to an end.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Andrew McCutchen Joins SiriusXM MLB Network Radio As Postseason Analyst

John Mamola
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Andrew McCutchen Joins SiriusXM MLB Network Radio As Postseason Analyst

Andrew McCutchen is trading the batter’s box for the radio booth this October. SiriusXM added the former NL MVP to its MLB Network Radio lineup for the postseason.

What We Know: McCutchen debuts as an analyst on Wednesday, October 14. From there, he will join Power Alley every Wednesday and Thursday from 10-11 a.m. ET. His run continues through the end of the World Series. Additionally, his MLB resume spans 18 seasons, five All-Star selections, four Silver Sluggers, and a 2012 Gold Glove.

What They Said: Andrew McCutchen: “I love talking baseball almost as much as I love playing it. There’s nothing like October baseball, and I’m excited to join the SiriusXM team and their listeners to break down these series and the exciting moments and performances that make the postseason so great.”

What Remains Unclear: SiriusXM did not say whether McCutchen’s role will continue after the World Series in any capacity with the MLB and MLBPA going into CBA discussions. Similarly, the release offers no update on his playing future following an 18th MLB season.

What It Means: Ultimately, the move gives MLB Network Radio a voice close to the game. McCutchen knows postseason pressure firsthand. In 2013, he hit .317 with 21 homers, 84 RBIs, and 27 steals to win NL MVP. That season, he helped lift Pittsburgh to its first winning record and playoff berth in over two decades. His addition to the MLB Network radio roster provides immediate insights that few analysts can provide being he’s still playing on the diamond.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Netflix Secures Rights To 2030 FIFA World Cup In Spain, Andorra

John Mamola
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Netflix Secures Rights To 2030 FIFA World Cup In Spain, Andorra

Netflix just scored one of soccer’s biggest prizes in Europe. On Tuesday, the streamer announced exclusive rights to the 2030 FIFA World Cup in Spain and Andorra.

What We Know: Netflix will carry all 104 matches, plus pre-game, halftime, post-game and daily round-up shows. However, one match per day will stream free in Spain. Additionally, a national free-to-air broadcaster will receive a sublicensed package, including every Spain match, both semifinals and the final. Notably, Netflix already holds FIFA rights to the 2027 and 2031 Women’s World Cups. Netflix said it plans extensive pre-tournament programming to build excitement ahead of the event.

What They Said: Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer at Netflix: “Few events unite people like the World Cup. I was in the stands this year as Spain lifted the trophy and witnessed the passion, the pride, the stories. They all become part of a nation’s culture. Remembered for generations. With Spain set to host in 2030, we’re thrilled to bring every match to fans across Spain and Andorra on Netflix.”

Mattias Grafström, FIFA Secretary General: “We are pleased to build on our partnership with Netflix as we look ahead to the FIFA World Cup 2030. This will be a special edition of the tournament, and we look forward to working together to bring it to fans across Spain and Andorra. Our shared ambition is to bring fans closer to the game and enable as many people as possible to share in the excitement of the competition.”

What Remains Unclear: Meanwhile, Netflix hasn’t named the free-to-air broadcaster receiving the sublicensed package. Likewise, the release doesn’t disclose the deal’s financial terms. Additionally, Netflix hasn’t said whether it will pursue World Cup rights in other markets.

What It Means: Ultimately, this deal represents a major step up for Netflix in international live sports. After all, Spain is the reigning World Cup champion and co-hosts the 2030 tournament with Morocco and Portugal. Moreover, 2030 marks the event’s 100th anniversary, with celebration matches in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay. Moreover, combined with NFL, MLB, boxing, MMA and Concacaf deals, Netflix keeps building a global sports portfolio.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber Sees Hidden Jewel In League’s Broadcasts On Apple

John Mamola
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MLS Commissioner Don Garber Sees Hidden Jewel In League’s Broadcasts On Apple

Outgoing MLS Commissioner Don Garber praised the league’s partnership with Apple at Front Office Sports’ Tuned In conference. Still, he believes MLS has yet to fully bring its in-stadium energy to viewers at home.

What We Know: Garber has led MLS since August 1999, and the league grew from 12 to 30 clubs under his watch. He steps down at the end of 2026, and LAFC co-owner Larry Berg takes over January 1. Meanwhile, MLS and Apple revised their deal last year, moving its end date from 2032 to mid-2029. Additionally, every MLS match now streams within a standard Apple TV subscription.

What They Said: (All quotes via Front Office Sports):

MLS Commissioner Don Garber feels the MLS can do more to bring the in stadium experience to fans at home: “Now with technology, interactivities, and where streaming is going with their ability to create interaction. To have side by sides, look-ins, and technology that allows you at times to feel. To have Apple vision to be able to see things like you could see it in the stadium. I’m confident that we’ll be able to translate the in-stadium passion and experience to something that will come through to a viewer and can be the MLS point of difference. I don’t think we focused on that enough. I really believe that it is our hidden jewel, and I look forward to seeing how it comes to life.”

MLS Commissioner Don Garber on the MLS media relationship with Apple: “I love the relationship. I love their technology, how they treat our games. I love the fact that I was in London and Paris, and you’re able to just look as if you’re in your living room in Brooklyn. Whether that’s the future for MLS or it’s a combination, we’ll see. It’s a big task for the new commissioner.”

MLS Commissioner Don Garber believes sports media revenues will only continue to grow: “I think the future of global media is just at its infancy. In our new phase from radio to over-the-air television to broadcast network television to cable to satellite. We’re in a whole new world, and it’s a good time to be in the live sports business. It’s non-disruptible. It’s interactive. I think we’re going to only see more and more. Any regret I have is that I can’t be sitting at that table and getting a pile of new revenue from Major League Soccer because I’d get it.”

What Remains Unclear: Garber left open whether Apple remains MLS’s sole streaming home or part of a broader mix as their rights deal ends in 2029. Instead, he called that decision “a big task for the new commissioner.” Neither side has announced an extension, so FOX’s role also remains an open question.

What It Means: For broadcasters, Garber’s comments signal that interactivity will drive MLS’s next media pitch. He pointed to side-by-sides, look-ins, and Apple Vision as tools to recreate the stadium feel. Ultimately, Berg will inherit both a growing media market and a deadline. Because the Apple deal now ends in mid-2029, MLS returns to market years ahead of schedule.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Miami Marlins Broadcaster Reportedly Fired For Lack Of Selling DTC Subscriptions On Social Media

John Mamola
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Miami Marlins Broadcaster Reportedly Fired For Lack Of Selling DTC Subscriptions On Social Media

The Miami Marlins have parted ways with longtime TV host Craig Minervini. The team reportedly wanted on-air talent who can help sell its direct-to-consumer subscriptions. According to the Miami Herald, Minervini’s departure relates directly to that.

What We Know: The Marlins dropped Minervini, Kyle Sielaff, Jeff Nelson and Rod Allen on Friday. As a result, Craig Mish will host all 155-plus pregame and postgame shows next season. In regards to social media, Mish has roughly 43,000 followers on X, while Minervini has fewer than 7,000 and hasn’t posted since January 2023. Meanwhile, the team reportedly felt its 12-person announcing roster was too large and wanted more defined roles with people who can sell more DTC subscriptions.

What They Said: Craig Miervini (via Facebook): “Look, it wasn’t my call. But I’ve had an incredible run of 25 straight years, a Marlins TV record on the broadcasts. It has been a Big-League Blast…Big-G style! I was informed today that the team was not bringing me back. Why, is unclear. The ole “going in another direction” schpiel!”

Craig Miervini: “What’s strange is I was told during our in-season review that I was “the best host” on our broadcasts. Think about that. You are told by your immediate bosses that you are tops, #1, the “best host” on our show. They went on to say they loved the mix of humor, knowledge and energy. That’s rewarding. We don’t do our jobs for that, but it’s nice to be appreciated. So, how (and why?) does this happen? So, yes, that does stick in your craw a bit. Hey, I’m human!”

What Remains Unclear: The Marlins have not publicly explained Minervini’s exit. It’s also unclear where he lands next, though he teased a podcast, game show or documentary on Facebook. Additionally, the team has yet to officially confirm radio voice Jack McMullen as Sielaff’s replacement.

What It Means: Ultimately, the shift reflects baseball’s post-RSN economics. The Marlins left FanDuel Sports in January and now lean heavily on subscriptions and ad sales for TV revenue. Consequently, broadcasters who actively promote the product carry added value. For Minervini, 25 years of polished hosting were seemingly no longer enough.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

CBS News Denies Lesley Stahl Nearly Quit After Edits to Latest 60 Minutes Story

Garrett Searight
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CBS News Denies Lesley Stahl Nearly Quit After Edits to Latest 60 Minutes Story

CBS News has denied a report that Lesley Stahl nearly quit 60 Minutes over edits to her latest story. The dispute reportedly centered on coverage of Israeli settlers in the West Bank.

What We Know: Status’ Oliver Darcy reported that Stahl’s story underwent a “very hands-on” editing process involving Charles Forelle, CBS News’ managing editor, and Bari Weiss, the network’s editor-in-chief. According to Darcy, Stahl “strongly objected” to the scrutiny and privately considered leaving 60 Minutes, where she’s worked since 1991.

However, CBS News strongly rejected the report’s characterization of the editorial process. The story focused on Israeli settlers in the West Bank, though the extent of the changes remains unclear.

What They Said: “This is a ludicrous, twisted narrative. All 60 Minutes pieces go through a famously rigorous editorial process – which includes edits from editors. This piece received far fewer edits than most.” -CBS News spokesperson

What Remains Unclear: Neither the reported extent of Stahl’s objections nor whether she seriously considered leaving 60 Minutes has been independently established. The precise nature of the edits and the disagreements surrounding the West Bank story also remain unclear. CBS News hasn’t publicly detailed the specific editorial changes that prompted the report.

What It Means: The reported dispute highlights the editorial tensions that can emerge as Weiss takes a hands-on role at CBS News. Because 60 Minutes has a long-established reputation for investigative journalism, questions about editorial independence could draw attention as leadership reshapes the network’s approach. However, CBS News’ forceful denial leaves the circumstances surrounding Stahl’s reported frustration unresolved.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Doc Reno Signs Multi-Year Representation Agreement With Creative Talent

John Mamola
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Doc Reno Signs Multi-Year Representation Agreement With Creative Talent

Doc Reno is making a longtime partnership official. The veteran South Florida radio host signed a multi-year representation deal with Creative Talent.

What We Know: Creative Talent will represent Reno across radio, podcasting, syndication, spokesperson work and digital media. Notably, the deal formalizes a working relationship of more than a decade. Originally from Cleveland, Reno arrived in South Florida in 2002 and previously hosted afternoon drive on Big 105.9 FM. Since 2009, his work has included iHeartRadio’s The Red Eye Rock Lounge and nights on Washington’s Big 100 FM.

What They Said: Steve Gallagher, President and CEO of Creative Talent: “Doc Reno is the hardest-working talent in broadcast media today. He has an incredible work ethic and is strongly loyal to his friends, family and the people he works with. Doc is a mega talent driven to create winning and great radio. There are exciting days ahead for Doc, and I am thrilled to be helping him get his message out!”

Doc Reno: “Steve and I have been working together for over a decade, and I trust his judgment and guidance like no other. He’s an exceptional person, and it’s an honor we’re beginning a new multi-year agreement. Now, go get me something great!”

What Remains Unclear: However, neither side disclosed the deal’s financial terms or its exact length. Additionally, the release did not name any new radio or podcast projects.

What It Means: Ultimately, the deal gives Reno a dedicated advocate as radio talent increasingly builds careers across multiple platforms. Plus, his track record in New York, Dallas and Seattle gives Creative Talent a proven brand to pitch. Moreover, his My Family Matters Foundation, which aids families of children with cancer, boosts his spokesperson appeal. As a result, Reno heads into his next chapter with momentum across radio and beyond.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

Jason Romano Departs Sports Spectrum After Ten Years

John Mamola
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Jason Romano Departs Sports Spectrum After Ten Years

Jason Romano is leaving Sports Spectrum after nearly a decade with the faith-based outlet. The executive producer announced his departure in a heartfelt farewell message to followers.

What We Know: Romano joined Sports Spectrum in 2017 after nearly 17 years at ESPN. In Bristol, he produced content for SportsCenter, NFL Live and Mike and Mike among others. Afterward, he launched the Sports Spectrum podcast, which explores the intersection of sports and faith. Furthermore, his decade with the outlet included coverage of nine Super Bowls.

What They Said: Jason Romano (via LinkedIn): After almost 10 years, it’s time for me to say goodbye to Sports Spectrum. And honestly, I don’t know how to put this into words. What started as a job became a calling. A ministry. A family. A huge part of who I am. I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for the people God placed in my life along the way.

Jason Romano: “To everyone who watched, listened, read, posted, shared, encouraged, emailed, DM’d, prayed and believed in what we were doing—THANK YOU. You made this work matter. For nearly 10 years, God gave me the incredible privilege of using two things I love—sports and media—to point people toward the thing I love most: Jesus. That’s something I’ll never stop being grateful for. Leaving hurts. A lot.”

Jason Romano: “I’m leaving with a full heart, deep gratitude, and more love for these people and this place than I could ever put into words. To God be the glory.”

What Remains Unclear: Romano did not reveal his next career move or a specific timeline. Additionally, his message did not address who could replace him at Sports Spectrum. Likewise, the future of the Sports Spectrum podcast remains uncertain for now.

What It Means: Romano’s exit closes a significant chapter for one of the most visible faith-based sports outlets. After all, he launched the podcast that became one of Sports Spectrum’s signature platforms. Meanwhile, his departure leaves a notable void in the growing sports-and-faith media space. Moreover, his next assignment will draw attention across the broader sports media industry. In addition, it will be interesting to see the continued growth of Sports Spectrum.

Barrett Media produces daily content on the music, news, and sports media industries. Sign up for our newsletters to stay updated and get the latest information right in your inbox.

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