Dark Money in Politics

The video explores the concept of 'dark money' in political donations, highlighting the legal framework that allows for undisclosed and unlimited contributions through nonprofits and LLCs. It discusses the impact of the Citizens United case and the role of 501(c)(4) organizations. The video also examines the influence of dark money on both conservative and liberal sides, with examples like the Koch Network and Democracy Alliance. It concludes with a look at the future of dark money in elections, noting recent IRS regulation changes.

What is the term used to describe undisclosed and unlimited campaign money?

• Public donations

• Dark money

• Bright money

• Transparent funds

Which Supreme Court case is associated with the rise of dark money?

• Brown v. Board of Education

• Bush v. Gore

• Roe v. Wade

• Citizens United

What tax code section allows nonprofits to spend unlimited sums on politics?

• Section 401(k)

• Section 501(c)(4)

• Section 302(b)

• Section 1040

Why are nonprofits attractive for donors who wish to remain anonymous?

• They have no financial limits

• They can directly support candidates

• They are tax-exempt

• They don't have to reveal donors

What is a common characteristic of LLCs used in political donations?

• They are only used by small donors

• They have few reporting requirements

• They are illegal

• They have high transparency

Which network is known for its use of dark money in politics?

• The Clinton Foundation

• The Koch Network

• The Rockefeller Group

• The Gates Foundation

How much money did the Koch Network raise in 2012?

• $100 million

• $200 million

• $407 million

• $1 billion

Which group is a source of dark money on the left?

• Cato Institute

• Democracy Alliance

• Federalist Society

• Heritage Foundation

Why do wealthy donors prefer politically active nonprofits?

• To gain public recognition

• To directly control candidates

• To maintain privacy

• To avoid taxes

What recent change has increased the activity of dark money groups?

• Stricter regulations

• Loosened IRS regulations

• Increased public scrutiny

• New campaign finance laws