Pennsylvania state Rep. Robert Matzie is proposing legislation that would levy a sales tax on political advertising in the state. Matzie’s bill, titled the “End the Free Ride for Annoying Political Ads” Act of 2025, would apply a 6% sales tax to political advertising on television, radio, cable, print, and social media. The move comes after Pennsylvania generated $1.2 billion in political advertising in 2024, making it a key swing state in presidential politics.
Matzie argues that the revenue generated from the tax could be used to fund schools, build infrastructure, and support communities. Pennsylvania received 32% more political ad spending than the next highest state in 2024, with the most money being spent in the Philadelphia and Pittsburgh markets. The bill would aim to ensure that out-of-state political action committees pay their fair share of taxes on political ads in Pennsylvania.
While Matzie expects continued spending on political advertising in the state, experts are unsure about the future. AdImpact, an organization that tracks political spending, noted that the landscape could change in the coming years. However, for now, Pennsylvania remains a crucial battleground state for political campaigns. The bill is still in the drafting stage, but if passed, it could have significant implications for political ad spending in Pennsylvania.
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