September, 01 2022, 12:20pm EDT
As Biden Addresses Threats to Democracy, Analysis Finds Corporate Interests Gave Nearly $25M To Election Objectors Since The Jan. 6 Insurrection
WASHINGTON
Ahead of President Biden's national address in Philadelphia on the growing threats to our democracy that are now Americans' number-one concern, government watchdog Accountable.US released an updated analysis showing that Fortune 500 companies and corporate trade associations donated over $731,000 in July alone to those in Congress who voted against certifying the 2020 election in the immediate aftermath of the violent insurrection. Total donations from corporate interests since the coup attempt to the group that has been dubbed the "Sedition Caucus" now stand at over $24.9 million - including $1.7 million to members of the Pennsylvania congressional delegation who sided with the election objectors.
Based on several surveys, many corporations recognize our democracy is under assault and have made broad proclamations supporting democratic ideals. But many of these same corporations have simply not matched their words with their actions and political spending. Meanwhile, most Americans say they oppose corporations donating to the campaigns of "election overturners" and say they are less likely to buy from them.
When 18 states have passed 34 voter suppression laws just since the January 6th insurrection, Americans are right to be gravely concerned about the health of our democracy. The question is why aren't more major corporations that have flourished in our democracy using their immense power and influence to help protect it - and why are some rewarding the very politicians that tried to finish what the insurrectionists started by voting to negate the will of the people?
Companies that claim to support democracy but fail to align their political spending with their stated values need to make it clear to their customers, shareholders, and own employees that they value something much more - having political influence over lawmakers no matter how destructive their views. Companies risk their own reputation and bottom line if they continue to marginalize Americans that want to see businesses take a more active role in preserving our fundamental democratic values. Companies that do their part to promote a healthy democracy will find it is always what's best for business.--Lindsey Melki, spokesperson for Accountable.US.
In August 2021, Accountable.US launched its searchable tracker that allows the public to search Fortune 500 corporations and big corporate trade associations that have contributed to those in Congress that voted against certifying the 2020 election since January of last year -- including corporations that made pledges to halt or pause donations to the lawmakers that perpetuated the Big Lie. Accountable.US' latest analysis follows the August 20, 2022, FEC deadline for monthly corporate PAC disclosures for contributions made in July 2022.
Accountable.US is a nonpartisan watchdog that exposes corruption in public life and holds government officials and corporate special interests accountable by bringing their influence and misconduct to light. In doing so, we make way for policies that advance the interests of all Americans, not just the rich and powerful.
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