Scripps raises 2026 Local Media political ad revenue outlook to about $275 million
SSP•Scripps raised its 2026 Local Media political advertising revenue forecast to about $275 million from $225 million-$250 million. The company also reported nearly $81 million in third-quarter political ad revenue and expects at least $150 million in fourth-quarter debt repayments.
1. Higher forecast
Scripps raised its 2026 Local Media political advertising revenue forecast to about $275 million, up from August guidance of $225 million-$250 million. The outlook is about 40% above 2022 midterm revenue, and third-quarter political advertising revenue totaled nearly $81 million.
2. Savings and debt
Transformation efforts target $125 million-$150 million in EBITDA growth by 2028, with about $100 million in annual run-rate savings expected by year-end. Workforce reductions totaled about 850 employees, nearly 20% of the starting workforce, including 431 cuts completed Tuesday. Fourth-quarter debt repayments should reach at least $150 million, funded by $83 million in quarter-end cash and political advertising proceeds.
