With Election Day quickly approaching, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has raised concerns about potential election interference by the Department of Justice through a popular progressive fundraising platform, ActBlue. Paxton’s investigation uncovered evidence of illegal campaign contributions being made through ActBlue’s platform, with individuals allegedly using false identities to make donations. Paxton has called on the Department of Justice to take immediate action to prevent illegal conduct in the upcoming presidential election.
In a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland, Paxton detailed his office’s findings of “highly suspicious campaign contributions” made through ActBlue. He cited potential violations of several federal laws, including wire fraud, identity theft, and making contributions in the name of another person. ActBlue has been a key player in collecting small-dollar donations for Democratic campaigns, raising an estimated $1.5 billion from 7 million donors. However, Paxton’s investigation suggests that a significant amount of money may have been funneled to high profile races through questionable means.
Paxton’s letter to Garland also included a petition to the Federal Election Commission (FEC) urging changes to close alleged “loopholes” that could allow illegal money to enter American elections. The attorney general has expressed concerns about “straw donations” being made through ActBlue using false identities and untraceable payment methods. Despite ActBlue’s implementation of additional security measures, Paxton believes that illegal contributions are still being made on the platform, prompting his criminal referral to the Department of Justice.
In response to Paxton’s investigation and criminal referral, ActBlue and the FEC have not yet provided comments. Paxton first opened an investigation into ActBlue in December 2023 to ensure compliance with all applicable laws. By August 2024, he revealed that while ActBlue had started requiring donors to provide CVV codes for credit card transactions, illegal contributions were still being made through false identities. Paxton’s efforts to address potential election fraud through ActBlue highlight the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and preventing unlawful interference in democratic elections.
As Election Day draws nearer, the issue of potential election interference through ActBlue has become a focal point for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. His investigation into the platform’s operations has revealed alarming evidence of illegal campaign contributions and fraudulent activities. Paxton’s calls for immediate action from the Department of Justice and the FEC underscore the importance of upholding the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. By addressing alleged “loopholes” and cracking down on illegal donations, Paxton aims to ensure that American elections are conducted with integrity and free from unauthorized influence.
