#private-donor-influence

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California
fromLos Angeles Times
14 hours ago

Billionaire-tax backers say they have enough signatures - times two - to qualify for ballot

A proposed 5% tax on billionaires' assets aims to generate $100 billion for healthcare funding in California.
Philosophy
fromA Philosopher's Blog
7 hours ago

Plutocracy Revisited

Plutocracy, rule by the wealthy, persists despite claims of democracy, as evidenced by unlimited corporate campaign spending and the emergence of a wealthy class.
Psychology
fromPsychology Today
2 days ago

How to Build a More Participatory Democracy With Psychology

Voter turnout is influenced by motivation, ability, and the difficulty of voting, with systemic barriers disproportionately affecting marginalized groups.
#philanthropy
fromNature
5 days ago
Non-profit organizations

Meeting the moment: how scientific philanthropies are expanding their reach

fromFortune
6 days ago
Fundraising

Jeff Bezos once gave Eva Longoria and the admiral behind Osama bin Laden's capture $100 million-but she says you don't need wealth to give back | Fortune

Fundraising
fromNature
5 days ago

How to secure philanthropic funding in a competitive climate

Jim Simons significantly impacted science funding through his philanthropic efforts, establishing the Simons Foundation and contributing billions to research.
Non-profit organizations
fromNature
5 days ago

Meeting the moment: how scientific philanthropies are expanding their reach

Federal funding cuts in 2025 prompted increased reliance on philanthropic funding for research and development in the US.
Fundraising
fromFortune
6 days ago

Jeff Bezos once gave Eva Longoria and the admiral behind Osama bin Laden's capture $100 million-but she says you don't need wealth to give back | Fortune

Impact in philanthropy is not solely tied to wealth; anyone can contribute meaningfully.
#california-politics
SF politics
fromIntelligencer
3 days ago

Tom Steyer Wants to Be California Left's Favorite Billionaire

California progressives are conflicted about endorsing billionaire Tom Steyer while advocating for wealth taxes and opposing billionaires' influence in politics.
US politics
fromThe New Yorker
3 days ago

With the Epstein Files, Democrats Embrace a New Type of Resistance

The Party's demand for the release of Epstein files represents a new strategy in confronting Donald Trump.
Washington DC
fromIntelligencer
5 days ago

Trump Hiding Ballroom Donors for Secret, Non-Corrupt Reasons

Trump's White House ballroom project will be donor-funded, concealing donor identities and avoiding conflict of interest precautions.
fromIntelligencer
3 days ago

Mamdani Has Mightily Pissed Off One of NYC's Richest People

"It is shameful that he used Ken's name as the example of those who supposedly aren't carrying their fair share of the burdens associated with New York City's often costly and wasteful spending," Beeson said. "In doing so, the mayor has once again manifested the ignorance and disdain of the elite political class towards those who have been consistently committed to building one of the greatest cities in the world."
NYC real estate
SF parents
fromPadailypost
3 days ago

DA ordered to release fundraising records related to Stanford protesters

A judge ordered the release of fundraising records related to DA Jeff Rosen's prosecution of pro-Palestinian protesters at Stanford.
US Elections
fromwww.mediaite.com
4 days ago

Major Prediction Market Reveals US Politicians Were Caught Betting on Their Own Elections

Three U.S. congressional candidates were caught trading on their own elections, violating Kalshi exchange rules.
#democratic-party
fromwww.npr.org
4 days ago
Left-wing politics

Democrats dominate midterm fundraising, but Republicans have a huge cash advantage

Left-wing politics
fromwww.npr.org
4 days ago

Democrats dominate midterm fundraising, but Republicans have a huge cash advantage

Democratic candidates are significantly outraising Republicans in key contests for Congress despite low approval ratings for the national party.
Left-wing politics
fromTruthout
2 weeks ago

Democrats Reject Resolution Condemning AIPAC Money in Primaries

Democratic leaders avoided addressing Israel's influence and public opposition to its actions despite declining support among voters.
London startup
fromwww.theguardian.com
4 days ago

Number of billionaires globally could reach 4,000 in next five years

The number of billionaires is projected to reach nearly 4,000 by 2031, driven by rapid wealth accumulation, especially in tech and AI.
fromInside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
4 days ago

Chapel Hill Keeps Refusing to Release $1.2M Report on SCiLL

The university said it selected the international law firm K&L Gates last summer to review 'allegations and concerns' regarding the school. Over more than seven months, the review team analyzed hundreds of thousands of documents and interviewed dozens of people.
Higher education
Artificial intelligence
fromFortune
4 days ago

Big Tech is spending $226,000 a day on lobbying Congress, advocacy group finds | Fortune

Big Tech companies are significantly increasing their lobbying expenditures in Washington, particularly in response to regulatory concerns over social media and AI.
Media industry
fromThe Nation
6 days ago

The Bezos "Post" Editorial Page Has Become a Mouthpiece for Pro-Billionaire Propaganda

Jeff Bezos has shifted The Washington Post's editorial stance to a hard-right position, opposing taxation and various social policies.
Fundraising
fromwww.theguardian.com
2 days ago

Nigel is mad to accept his money': who is Christopher Harborne, the mystery billionaire bankrolling Reform?

Chakrit Sakunkrit, a major donor to Nigel Farage's party, hosted a birthday celebration where Farage hinted at ambitions for prime ministership.
California
fromSan Jose Inside
2 days ago

As Election Draws Closer, Mahan Continues to Lead in Fundraising

San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan leads California governor candidates in campaign funds with $8.9 million, despite polling in single digits.
SF politics
from48 hills
3 days ago

What if Tom Steyer wasn't a billionaire any more? - 48 hills

Tom Steyer's potential divestment could enhance his gubernatorial campaign amidst skepticism towards billionaires in politics.
#democracy
fromwww.mediaite.com
5 days ago

WATCH: Dem Senator Presses Howard Lutnick on Not Replying to Letter on Epstein Ties

Sen. Van Hollen expressed frustration over Secretary Lutnick's failure to respond to a letter regarding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein, emphasizing the need for transparency.
US politics
Higher education
from48 hills
5 days ago

Lurie wants to undermine mandate for big institutions to tell neighborhoods what they are doing - 48 hills

San Francisco requires large institutions to file master plans for growth every ten years to ensure community accountability and planning.
SF politics
fromFortune
4 days ago

The Gates Foundation is investigating its ties to Epstein-just weeks before Bill Gates faces Congress | Fortune

The Gates Foundation is investigating its past ties with Jeffrey Epstein as Bill Gates prepares to testify before Congress about their relationship.
Fundraising
fromwww.theguardian.com
4 days ago

Private secretary of billionaire philanthropist Judith Neilson charged with fraud over $1m luxury purchases

Annalouise Spence has been charged with 68 counts of fraud for allegedly misusing a business credit card to make over $1 million in unauthorized purchases.
Left-wing politics
fromThe Nation
1 week ago

A Major Taboo Was Broken at the DNC Last Weekend

The DNC is implementing reforms for financial transparency, accountability, and internal democracy, with significant steps taken during the recent meeting in New Orleans.
Fundraising
fromThedrum
5 days ago

Digital Marketing and the Third Sector

Charities effectively use digital marketing and social media to connect with audiences and enhance fundraising efforts.
Law
fromwww.mediaite.com
3 weeks ago

Lawyers Warned Top Democratic PAC They May Have Misled Congress' on Illegal Foreign Donations Explosive NYT Report Reveals

ActBlue may have misled Congress about its foreign donation screening, raising legal risks and potential criminal liability.
Fundraising
fromFast Company
1 week ago

A different kind of "trust" fund

Trust is essential for effective climate innovation, requiring collaboration over competition among organizations addressing the climate crisis.
fromEntrepreneur
1 week ago

Why Passion Isn't Enough to Scale a Nonprofit

Most nonprofits begin with passion, and for good reason. A founder identifies a critical need and brings together a team that cares deeply enough to act. That kind of energy is what makes the early days possible. It drives long hours, resourceful problem-solving and a deep commitment to impact.
Non-profit organizations
US politics
fromwww.mediaite.com
4 weeks ago

No Kings' Rallies Fueled By Plump $3 Billion Budget From Hundreds of Organizations: Fox News

No Kings protests are funded by a $3 billion budget from hundreds of organizations aiming to challenge the Trump administration.
Fundraising
fromThe Nation
1 week ago

15 Bucks a Signature: The Crisis of Money in US Politics Is Growing

California's billionaire tax fight exemplifies the growing influence of wealthy individuals in politics since the 2010 Citizens United decision.
Business
fromFortune
1 month ago

Billionaire says US wealth inequality is 'completely unsustainable as a society' | Fortune

The top 1% of U.S. households owns 31.7% of wealth, matching the bottom 90%, creating the widest gap since 1989 while the top 10% accounts for nearly 50% of consumer spending.
#giving-pledge
Fundraising
fromwww.nytimes.com
1 month ago

The Billionaire Backlash Against a Philanthropic Dream

Warren Buffett's Giving Pledge aimed to encourage billionaires to donate over half their wealth to nonprofit causes.
Fundraising
fromTechCrunch
1 month ago

The billionaires made a promise -- now some want out | TechCrunch

The Giving Pledge, launched by Buffett and Gates in 2010 to encourage billionaire philanthropy, has dramatically declined in participation and effectiveness despite massive wealth concentration globally.
Fundraising
fromwww.nytimes.com
1 month ago

The Billionaire Backlash Against a Philanthropic Dream

Warren Buffett's Giving Pledge aimed to encourage billionaires to donate over half their wealth to nonprofit causes.
Fundraising
fromTechCrunch
1 month ago

The billionaires made a promise -- now some want out | TechCrunch

The Giving Pledge, launched by Buffett and Gates in 2010 to encourage billionaire philanthropy, has dramatically declined in participation and effectiveness despite massive wealth concentration globally.
#nonprofit-leadership
Mission District
fromsfist.com
1 month ago

Group Filmed Paying $5 Per Signature at Sixth and Mission on Pro-Billionaire Petitions

California Secretary of State investigates alleged ballot initiative petition fraud in San Francisco involving paid signature collectors using false voter identities from outside the Bay Area.
US politics
fromEsquire
1 month ago

Are You One of Those Weirdos Who Wants More Money in Politics? Move to West Virginia!

West Virginia passed legislation obscuring employer information from political donations over $250, ostensibly for harassment protection but effectively shielding corporate political influence from public scrutiny.
Social justice
fromwww.theguardian.com
1 month ago

I work with human trafficking survivors. Rich men like Bill Gates can do more to make amends for their Epstein ties | Bridgette Carr

Wealthy individuals' apologies for associating with Epstein are necessary but insufficient without accountability and action to address the systemic exploitation they enabled through their power and resources.
fromEmptywheel
2 months ago

The Economic Myths Supporting The Existence Of Billionaires

My suggestion is to unlearn the stupid ideas about capitalism that dominate our education system and our political discourse. Replace them with something approximating reality.
fromHarvard Business Review
1 month ago

Treat Nonprofits as Strategic Partners, Not Just Philanthropic Recipients

Most for-profit companies still confine nonprofit relationships to corporate philanthropy. Donations flow through foundations, annual reports highlight community contributions, and nonprofit engagement is framed as evidence of corporate responsibility.
Non-profit organizations
Higher education
fromNature
1 month ago

Funding from individual donors: lessons from the Epstein case

Universities must establish and empower compliance teams to ensure adherence to ethical funding policies and prevent acceptance of donations from individuals with problematic backgrounds.
Left-wing politics
fromwww.theguardian.com
1 month ago

America needs a movement to curb billionaires' power | Steven Greenhouse

Over 900 US billionaires wield excessive influence over elections, economy, government policies, and media, threatening democracy and economic fairness, requiring urgent grassroots action to curb their power.
Higher education
fromNature
1 month ago

The Epstein scandal is a wake-up call - new rules are needed on links with rich donors

Academic institutions failed to implement proper oversight of faculty donor relationships, allowing Jeffrey Epstein to influence research despite having no scientific expertise and a criminal history.
fromNonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.
2 months ago

Philanthropy Must Defend the Right to Bear Witness | Nonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.

"Are you okay?" These were Alex Pretti's last words, said to a woman after ICE agents had tackled and pepper-sprayed her. Videos from bystanders show Pretti holding up a phone, attempting to document what was happening before he himself was pepper-sprayed, wrestled to the ground, and killed by those officers. He lost his life not for committing violence, but for documenting it, and stepping in to protect someone facing it.
US politics
Left-wing politics
fromWIRED
1 month ago

This Is the Next Wave of Political Fundraising

Content creators are increasingly leveraging their platforms for direct political fundraising, raising tens of thousands of dollars in single streams and establishing organized coalitions to convert followers into donors for campaigns and causes.
Higher education
fromFortune
2 months ago

How Jeffrey Epstein exploited colleges' 'tremendous drive to acquire money' | Fortune

Universities rely heavily on federal funding but also accept private donations, which raises ethical concerns when donors like Jeffrey Epstein are involved.
US politics
fromFlowingData
2 months ago

Searchable database of unregulated political contributions

527 organizations accept large, unrestricted contributions and collectively spent over $1 billion in 2022.
fromNonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.
2 months ago

This Is Not a Retreat | Nonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.

The change in the administration's tactics in Minneapolis is not a retreat. Instead, they are regrouping and planning another mode of attack, with the hopes that their repression might be met with resistance that is easier to control and contain. People who garner their relevancy and power through the dehumanization and oppression of others will do whatever it takes to cling to their soulless sense of self.
US politics
Fundraising
fromwww.theguardian.com
1 month ago

The Guardian view on falling donations to charity: rising living costs are part of the problem, but not all of it | Editorial

UK charitable donations fell from 15.4 billion to 14 billion, marking the first overall drop since 2021, with fewer donors giving smaller amounts despite high-profile fundraising campaigns.
fromwww.theguardian.com
2 months ago

Readers reply: what would be the most socially useful way to spend a billion dollars?

I've always thought it would be good to acquire an old warehouse in every town throughout the land and convert it into low-rent community workspaces for artists, local charities and small businesses getting off the ground. A kind of people's WeWork. What would others do with a humungous, but not unlimited, pile of dosh to benefit society? Roland Freeman, West Yorkshire Send new questions to nq@theguardian.com.
Left-wing politics
Fundraising
fromFortune
1 month ago

Peter Thiel is actively convincing billionaires to abandon The Giving Pledge - and it's working | Fortune

Peter Thiel actively discourages wealthy individuals from honoring The Giving Pledge commitments, claiming the philanthropic initiative has lost momentum and relevance among billionaires.
US politics
fromSan Jose Spotlight
2 months ago

Mountain View nonprofit forgoes federal funding on principle - San Jose Spotlight

Community Services Agency in Mountain View declined Community Development Block Grant funding to avoid enforcing immigration checks and bans on gender ideology and abortion referrals.
US politics
fromOpenSecrets News
2 months ago

This handful of firms dominates political ad buying - OpenSecrets News

A small group of private media-buying firms dominated 2024 political ad spending, with Waterfront Strategies far ahead, concentrating influence on campaign and super PAC placement.
US politics
fromSilicon Canals
2 months ago

The $10 million question: When billionaires pick your senator - Silicon Canals

A $10 million donation from Elon Musk to Nate Morris demonstrates billionaire influence shaping Republican politics and elevating anti‑establishment candidates in post‑McConnell Kentucky.
Fundraising
fromwww.bbc.com
1 month ago

Charity hopes new HQ can bring people together

Health Connections Guernsey purchased Beatrice House for £1m to create a community hub where younger and older islanders connect through intergenerational activities and support services.
fromNonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.
2 months ago

Balancing Transparency and Timeliness in Organizational Decision-Making | Nonprofit Quarterly | Civic News. Empowering Nonprofits. Advancing Justice.

Dear Transparency-Committed Reader, You're not alone. So many of us want decision-making to reflect our collective values (like transparency, care, and shared power), but it's hard to actually put those values into practice. That gap between what we believe and how we decide can be frustrating. And getting stuck in the process is a common concern I hear from groups. I am happy to share, though, that decision-making doesn't have to be a nightmare.
Fundraising
fromwww.theguardian.com
2 months ago

A mixed blessing': crowdfunding has changed the way we give, but is it fair and effective?

Within hours of the Bondi beach terror attack, the money had already begun to pour in. As images of the tragedy flooded social media, people from around the world donated tens of thousands of dollars to the victims, their families and first responders. Passing the hat around the neighbourhood or the local pub has always been a staple response in times of crisis. But today, that instinct to open your wallet has been exponentially supercharged via a digital simulacrum: online crowdfunding platforms.
Fundraising
Fundraising
fromPsychology Today
1 month ago

The Overhead-Free Strategy That Tripled Donations

Zero-overhead guarantees triple donations, and reframing identical overhead costs increases donor participation from 49% to 71%.
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