Justices expressed caution about interfering with Congress, while conservative justices questioned whether current laws weaken party power compared to super PACs|Kjetil Ree|CC BY-SA 3.0

The Supreme Court is considering whether to loosen limits on how much political parties can spend on candidates, a decision that could reshape the 2026 midterms.

Republican groups, including Vice President JD Vance, argue that current rules restrict their ability to support candidates and violate free speech rights. Democrats warn that easing limits would give wealthy donors too much influence.

During Tuesday’s hearing, liberal justices expressed caution about interfering with Congress, while conservative justices questioned whether current laws weaken party power compared to super PACs.

A ruling in favor of Republicans could let party committees spend unlimited sums on candidate ads and access cheaper broadcast rates, potentially saving tens of millions of dollars and narrowing Democrats’ fundraising advantage.