Networks of Nonprofits Obscure Millions in Democratic Political Spending
NEWS & RESEARCH
Democratic donors are using "daisy chains" of nonprofits to funnel hundreds of millions into politics anonymously. For example, nearly half of the $266 million raised by the super PAC Future Forward came from its nonprofit arm, Future Forward USA Action, effectively masking individual donor identities.
SOURCES: New York Times
ANALYSIS & OPINION
Brennan Center: This "secretive spending" erodes public trust and political accountability.
CBS News: These networks act as a "secretive web" designed to covertly distribute billionaire wealth.
Public Citizen: Lobbyist Craig Holman notes that billionaires are actively exploiting legal loopholes to bypass contribution limits and disclosure requirements.
SOURCES: Brennan Center | CBS News
HOW TO FIX IT
Federal action:
The DISCLOSE Act: Require groups to identify donors giving $10,000+ per cycle to end the "shell game" of intermediary funding.
Public Financing: Establish public funding for congressional races to reduce candidate reliance on ultra-wealthy donors.
State action:
Local Public Financing: Implement state-level public funding systems to empower small donors in local elections.
Legislation: S.3991 - DISCLOSE Act of 2026
