Financial disclosures and analyses from campaign finance watchdogs

Citizens United Decision Marks 15 Years of Increased 'Dark Money' Influence in U.S. Elections

Jan 21, 2025, 04:45 PM

Fifteen years after the Supreme Court's Citizens United v. FEC decision, the ruling continues to be a focal point of debate over the influence of 'dark money' in U.S. elections. The decision, which struck down a ban on limiting independent expenditures by corporations, unions, and other groups, has been credited with ushering in an era of unprecedented campaign spending. Critics argue that it has shifted political power away from voters and toward billionaires and corporate interests, leading to increased election costs and reduced transparency. The ruling has also facilitated the rise of super PACs, which can raise and spend unlimited sums of money, often funded by anonymous donors through 501(c)(4) organizations. The impact of Citizens United was notably evident in the 2024 election cycle, where outside groups spent $4.3 billion, a significant increase from previous cycles. Progressive groups and Democratic lawmakers have called for the decision to be overturned, citing its detrimental effect on democracy.