"The Political Spending of 501(c)(4) Nonprofits in the 2012 Election"

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The Political Spending of 501(c)(4) Nonprofits in the 2012 Election

by Liz Bartolomeo at the Sunlight Foundation

http://sunlightfoundation.com/blog/2013/05/21/the-political-spending-of-501c4-nonprofits-in-the-2012-election/

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Throughout the 2012 election cycle, Sunlight followed the unlimited money. From super PACs and corporations to unions and “dark money” we collected, in real time, the political spending reported by these outside groups.

With the 501(c)(4) social welfare nonprofits back in the news again (and the IRS’s enforcement of them), we wanted to take a closer look at how these organizations spent money to influence the 2012 election. We often use the term “dark money” to describe these groups since they can spend an unlimited amount on independent expenditures and electioneering communications yet they do not have to disclose their donors. For more information on how to track all types of federal campaign finance disclosures, check out this handy infographic.

Overall, dark money groups reported $300 million in independent expenditures in 2012. Of the 50 groups who spent the most, 15 are 501(c)(4) nonprofits. Using our Follow The Unlimited Money tracker, Political Ad Sleuth, Ad Hawk and return on investment calculations, here is how they made an impact in the race for the White House and Congress.

Please note that Americans for Prosperity spent $33.5 million overall in 2012 focusing on opposing just a single candidate: Barack Obama. It is separated from the list below since the others spent money in more than one race. Figures below are also reflective of just general election spending.


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