They are also required to be reported in public campaign finance disclosures, including the identity of donors and amounts, in accordance with federal law.
Why the Controversy Emerged
1. Messaging and Expectations
Critics said the Thanksgiving appeal created the impression that contributions would directly support charitable food assistance — such as providing turkeys or groceries to struggling families — rather than go to a political campaign account.
The email’s emphasis on holiday giving, community needs, and helping families led some readers to assume they were donating to a traditional charity or nonprofit food drive.
Opponents labeled this a “bait‑and‑switch,” arguing that donors expecting to fund charitable relief for Thanksgiving were instead contributing to a political campaign.
They contended that tying holiday messaging and charitable language to a campaign fundraising link could blur the distinction between charitable support and partisan political activity. Continue reading…
