Sinclair Forecasts $455 Million in Preliminary Full-Year Political Advertising Revenue

Sinclair forecast about $455 million in preliminary full-year political advertising revenue for 2026 and raised its adjusted EBITDA outlook to $825 million-$835 million on Nov. 4, revising its election-year expectations.

The new adjusted EBITDA range compares with the company’s previous forecast of $730 million-$760 million. Sinclair’s political advertising guidance had been at least $375 million since Aug. 5, when it was raised from at least $333 million. The $455 million figure is a preliminary forecast, not realized full-year revenue.

Sinclair recorded $59 million in political advertising revenue in the second quarter, 9% more than in the same quarter of 2022. Adjusted EBITDA is an earnings measure that excludes interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, with additional company-specified adjustments.

Broadcast television was projected to lead the 2025-26 election advertising market, with $5.6 billion in spending, in a broader election ad market forecast.