The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday struck down federal limits on coordinated spending between political parties and their candidates. The 6-3 ruling, written by Justice Brett Kavanaugh, overturned a 2001 precedent and divided the justices along ideological lines. The decision allows parties to spend unlimited amounts in coordination with candidates.
The case, National Republican Senatorial Committee v. Federal Election Commission, challenged post-Watergate restrictions enacted in 1974. Justice Kavanaugh wrote that the limits violated the First Amendment rights of parties and candidates to engage in political speech.
Justice Elena Kagan dissented, arguing that the ruling would allow parties to serve as conduits for large donors and increase the risk of corruption. She wrote that without limits, a single donor could write a large check that candidates could control.
President Donald Trump praised the decision on Truth Social, calling it a big win for Republicans and the First Amendment. Democratic leaders criticized it as benefiting billionaire donors and special interests.
The ruling is expected to affect spending in the 2026 midterm elections, giving party committees greater flexibility to support candidates directly.
