The Trump Effect: CNN Raises Ad Rates 4,000 Percent for GOP Debate

The Trump Effect: CNN Raises Ad Rates 4,000 Percent for GOP Debate

Talk about ka-ching.

CNN is expecting ratings to skyrocket during the upcoming GOP debate on September 16, hiking up prices roughly 4,000 percent above its normal rate for commercial time.

The cable news network is charging as much as $200,000 for a 30-second spot, according to reports. That’s the equivalent of buying commercials during broadcast primetime series.

Usually, an average spot during CNN’s primetime coverage would set you back about $5,000.

Also Read: Donald Trump to Sign GOP Loyalty Pledge Eliminating Possibility of Indepedent Run

CNN is also asking for $50,000 to $60,000 for a half-minute commercial during the debate among lower-ranking candidates that will take place earlier in the day.

It’s not clear yet who will participate in the top-tier debate as CNN recent amended its debate criteria. But it’s clear the price hike has a lot to do with Donald Trump.

Trump has been largely credited with Fox News record-breaking ratings during its Ohio GOP debate last month. The broadcast was the most-watched cable telecast of all time, excluding sports programming.

The debate also clocked an impressive 6.7 million viewers in the advertiser-coveted 18-to-49 demographic.

Also Read: Carly Fiorina Poised to Join Next GOP Debate After CNN Amends Rules

CNN has not responded to TheWrap’s request for comment.